If you are looking for a comforting dish that brings together the flavors of rich tomato sauce, fresh spinach, and cheesy ravioli all in one pan, this Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe is perfect for you. It is a fuss-free, heartwarming meal that you can whip up quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender ravioli layered with vibrant spinach and creamy cheeses creates a satisfying dish that tastes like it was made with love. This bake is more than just pasta; it’s a wholesome, inviting meal that the whole family will enjoy time and time again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe a success. Each component plays a crucial role, from adding freshness with spinach to layering flavor with herbs and cheeses, all while keeping things surprisingly simple.
- Frozen cheese ravioli (25 oz): Using frozen saves time and delivers that cheesy, pillowy texture that’s essential for the bake.
- Marinara sauce (24 oz jar): Choose a good-quality marinara for a flavorful, robust tomato base.
- Fresh spinach (2 cups, chopped): Adds color, nutrients, and a gentle earthiness that balances the rich tomato and cheese.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups): Provides gooey, melty goodness that ties everything together beautifully.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Offers a sharp, savory kick that enhances the overall flavor.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Brings a sweet, aromatic herb note to the sauce.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Adds a classic Italian herbal depth.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses gentle garlicky warmth without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing and brightening the flavors.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon, optional): For lightly greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking.
How to Make Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, if you’re using olive oil, lightly grease your baking dish to ensure the ravioli bake releases easily after cooking. This prep sets the stage for a clean, effortless process.
Step 2: Cook the Ravioli
Boil the frozen ravioli according to the package instructions, typically for about 4-5 minutes until they float to the surface and are tender but still firm. Drain the ravioli well to avoid a soggy bake—this step ensures each bite maintains the perfect texture.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce and Spinach
In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce with dried basil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the chopped fresh spinach, letting it soften slightly in the sauce. This mixture is where the flavor magic begins, marrying herbs and greens with the tangy tomato base.
Step 4: Layer the Bake
In your prepared baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the tomato-spinach sauce. Add half of the cooked ravioli in a single layer and pour over half of the remaining sauce. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Repeat this layering process once more, finishing with a generous cheese topping to create that irresistible golden crust.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling
Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges. The aromas filling your kitchen will surely signal that dinner is almost ready!
How to Serve Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe, consider adding fresh garnishes like chopped basil, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, or a drizzle of good olive oil. These little touches bring brightness and a fresh finish that complements the rich flavors.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs beautifully with light sides such as a crisp garden salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. These sides add crunch and freshness, balancing the indulgent, cheesy richness of the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. This presentation is perfect for dinner parties, making each serving feel special and personal. You can also layer the bake with extra veggies or even substitute spinach with kale for a heartier option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a perfect next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
This Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe freezes well if you want to save portions for later. Freeze the baked dish in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, about 15-20 minutes, or use a microwave if you’re in a hurry. A little sprinkle of cheese on top during reheating will refresh the dish nicely.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh ravioli works wonderfully in this recipe and may even reduce cooking time slightly. Just be gentle when handling to avoid breaking the delicate pasta.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
The recipe is naturally vegetarian with cheese and spinach, but to make it vegan, substitute the cheese with plant-based alternatives and check that your marinara sauce contains no animal products.
Can I add other vegetables to this bake?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just sauté them slightly beforehand to enhance their flavors and ensure they cook thoroughly in the bake.
What type of cheese is best for topping?
A combination of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan delivers the perfect melt and flavorful crust. You can also experiment with provolone or fontina for different tastes.
How spicy is this bake?
This recipe is mild by default but you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce if you like a little heat.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe is one of those meals you’ll find yourself making over and over, thanks to its simple preparation and comforting flavors. It’s perfect for family dinners, and the ingredients are easy to find and affordable. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy all those layers of cheesy, tangy, and fresh goodness that make this bake a true crowd-pleaser.
Print
Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Easy Tomato Spinach Ravioli Bake combines tender cheese ravioli with a flavorful marinara sauce, fresh spinach, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Seasoned with dried basil, oregano, and garlic powder, this comforting casserole is baked to golden perfection, making it a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Ravioli and Sauce
- 1 (25 oz) package frozen cheese ravioli (or fresh ravioli)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
Vegetables and Cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the ravioli bake.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the frozen or fresh cheese ravioli, marinara sauce, chopped fresh spinach, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to evenly coat the ravioli with sauce and spices.
- Assemble Bake: Pour the ravioli mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- You can use fresh or frozen ravioli depending on availability and preference.
- Adding fresh spinach gives a nice texture; alternatively, use baby spinach or kale for different flavors.
- Feel free to substitute shredded mozzarella with a blend of Italian cheeses like provolone or fontina for richness.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
