Melt-in-Your-Mouth Ravioli Lasagna with Gooey Cheese and Fresh Basil
If you love lasagna but don’t always have the time (or energy) for all those layers and prep, this Melt-in-Your-Mouth Ravioli Lasagna is your new favorite shortcut. Creamy, cheesy, and bubbling with rich flavor, it delivers the comfort of lasagna without the fuss—thanks to the magic of pre-made ravioli.
Perfect for cozy nights in, casual dinners with friends, or even meal-prep-friendly leftovers, this dish is indulgent yet incredibly easy to make. One bite, and it’ll become a household regular.
Why I Love This Recipe
What’s not to love about creamy layers of cheese-filled pasta smothered in a garlicky Parmesan cream sauce? It’s like mac and cheese and lasagna had a gloriously rich baby. The addition of fresh basil and parsley at the end brightens up the dish and gives it just the right balance of richness and freshness.
It’s also wonderfully adaptable—whether you use fresh ravioli or frozen, add a protein or veggie, or stick to the basic version, it never disappoints.
Ingredients
- 12–16 cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Ingredient Swaps & Tips
- Ravioli: Cheese ravioli are classic, but spinach, sausage, or mushroom-filled work great.
- Cheese: Swap mozzarella with fontina or provolone for extra richness.
- Add protein: Layer in shredded rotisserie chicken or sautéed ground beef for a heartier version.
- Make it spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
How to Make It – Step-by-Step
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ravioli according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to make a roux.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
- Stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half the ravioli, then spoon over half the cheese sauce. Repeat with remaining ravioli and sauce.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly on top.
- Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil and parsley before serving.
Tips for Success
- Let the lasagna sit for 5 minutes before slicing—it holds together better.
- Use a shallow, wide baking dish to allow for more cheese-to-ravioli surface area (the best part).
- If using frozen ravioli, thaw slightly or cook as directed before layering.
- For crispier top cheese, broil for the last 2–3 minutes (watch closely!).
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but these sides and drinks complement it beautifully:
- Serve with crusty garlic bread and a simple green salad.
- Pair with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or a citrusy lemonade.
- Add a side dip like Beer Cheese Dip for a true indulgent spread.
- For a twist on traditional lasagna, try This Instant Pot Lasagna.
- Hosting friends? Throw in Crockpot Nacho Dip or Sheet Pan Quesadillas.
Storage & Leftovers
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days, tightly covered.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual servings.
- Freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in foil and placed in freezer bags for up to 1 month.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Looking for more comfort food hits? These are some crowd favorites:
- Instant Pot Lasagna
- Beer Cheese Dip
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- Crockpot Nacho Dip
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Final Thoughts
This ravioli lasagna is a weeknight winner with weekend vibes. Rich, creamy, gooey, and impossibly satisfying, it proves that with just a few ingredients, you can make magic.
Tried it? Let me know in the comments or tag @chefmaniac to show off your creation. Be sure to follow for more cozy comfort food ideas that don’t skimp on flavor!
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