This Fall Ravioli Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food for autumn. With layers of cheesy ravioli, savory Italian sausage, and rich marinara sauce, this dish brings warmth and flavor to any family gathering. It's easy to prepare and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!
Fall Ravioli Lasagna is a delicious twist on traditional lasagna, perfect for cozy autumn dinners! Packed with layers of rich Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and cheesy ravioli, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. Let’s explore the ingredients that make this lasagna so comforting and flavorful!
INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage: Provides a savory base with rich flavors.
- 1 small white onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 4 large cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the flavor with a fragrant touch.
- 2 (28-ounce) jars good-quality marinara sauce: The heart of the lasagna, bringing acidity and richness.
- 2 (25-ounce) packages frozen ravioli: A convenient layer that absorbs the flavors beautifully.
- 1 (15-ounce) package ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and a rich texture.
- 3 cups (12 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly and creates a gooey top layer.
- Toppings: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil for added flavor and garnish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
- Step 2:
- In a large sauté pan, brown the ground Italian sausage over medium-high heat, crumbling the meat as it cooks. Once browned, transfer to a clean plate and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In the same pan, reserve about 1 tablespoon of the sausage grease. Discard the rest, then add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Step 4:
- Add the marinara sauce and the cooked sausage to the pan, stirring to combine. Turn off the heat.
- Step 5:
- Spread about 1 cup of the meat sauce evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Step 6:
- Layer in the ingredients: one package of ravioli, all of the ricotta, half of the mozzarella, half of the remaining meat sauce, the second package of ravioli, all of the remaining meat sauce, and finally, all of the remaining mozzarella.
- Step 7:
- Loosely cover the pan with aluminum foil, being careful not to touch the cheese. Bake for 35 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes. Turn on the broiler and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is lightly golden and bubbly.
- Step 8:
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
- This Fall Ravioli Lasagna is best served warm, straight from the oven. Pair it with a side salad for a complete meal!
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the lasagna. Cut it into individual portions, wrap them tightly, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Helpful Notes
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the layers, such as spinach or mushrooms, for added nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier lasagna, consider using spicy Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- This dish can be made ahead of time! Prepare it up to the baking step, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis suggests adding a layer of béchamel sauce for extra creaminess.
- Chef Rachael Ray recommends using fresh herbs to elevate the flavors even more.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- This Fall Ravioli Lasagna is a comforting, hearty dish that showcases the best flavors of autumn.
- It's easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd, making it ideal for family gatherings.
- The combination of cheesy layers and rich meat sauce is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters!
VARIATIONS
- For a vegetarian option, skip the sausage and add layers of roasted vegetables instead.
- Use different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, for a unique flavor twist.
- Try using flavored ravioli, such as spinach or mushroom, to add more depth to the dish.