If you are looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you have to try this amazing 3 Ingredient Baked Ravioli (Lazy Lasagna) Recipe. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a delightfully simple, cheesy, saucy casserole that takes just minutes to assemble and delivers all the satisfaction of a classic lasagna without the fuss of noodles and multiple layers. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish proves that sometimes the best meals come from the simplest recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish lies in using just three essential ingredients that come together naturally to create a vibrant flavor and lovely texture. Each ingredient plays its own key role in balancing richness, tang, and cheesiness without overwhelming the palate.
- Frozen cheese ravioli: These tender, cheese-filled pillows are the star, providing the perfect base with built-in pasta and filling; no boiling required.
- Pasta sauce: Choose a robust tomato-based sauce, either homemade or your favorite jarred variety, to bring acidity and a rich, savory depth to the dish.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: This melty, stretchy cheese gives the dish that irresistible gooey texture that makes baked pastas so comforting.
- Optional shredded parmesan cheese: A sprinkling on top adds an extra layer of salty, nutty flavor and helps the crust turn golden brown.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Baked Ravioli (Lazy Lasagna) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with non-stick spray or olive oil to prevent sticking and help your cheesy layers slide out easily when served.
Step 2: Spread the First Layer of Sauce
Pour about three-quarters of a cup of the pasta sauce evenly across the bottom of your baking dish. This base layer keeps the ravioli from sticking and infuses each bite with bright tomato flavor.
Step 3: Add the First Layer of Ravioli and Toppings
Lay half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce in a single layer. Next, spoon half of the remaining pasta sauce evenly over the ravioli, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. This layering builds a balanced texture and flavor profile.
Step 4: Repeat Layers for a Hearty Bake
Repeat the layering process with the remaining ravioli, sauce, and shredded mozzarella. If you are using parmesan cheese, now is the time to sprinkle it on top—it will create a beautifully browned and flavorful crust as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake and Uncover
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and help the ravioli cook through evenly. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese on top is golden and bubbling.
Step 6: Let It Rest
After taking it out of the oven, allow the baked ravioli to rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This brief wait lets the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve while allowing all the flavors to settle beautifully.
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Baked Ravioli (Lazy Lasagna) Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten this hearty dish with fresh garnishes like chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and a subtle herbaceous note. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a lovely mild heat, or a drizzle of good olive oil can enhance the richness.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to bring in some freshness and balance. Garlic bread or crusty Italian loaf is also a fantastic choice to sop up any extra sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, bake the ravioli in individual ramekins or small oven-safe bowls. This way, everyone gets their own personal serving of the 3 Ingredient Baked Ravioli (Lazy Lasagna) Recipe. Alternatively, top with a fried egg or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor twists.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked ravioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It holds its flavor well, making it an ideal next-day lunch or dinner option that can be quickly reheated.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully! To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it straight from frozen; just add extra baking time until heated through.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly again. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal—just be sure to cover to avoid drying out the cheese and sauce.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you have fresh ravioli on hand, this recipe will work just as well. Since fresh ravioli cooks faster, keep an eye on baking time to avoid overcooking and adjust accordingly.
What type of pasta sauce works best for this recipe?
A simple marinara or tomato basil sauce works perfectly here. Choose a sauce that’s not too watery to keep the casserole from becoming soggy, and one with robust tomato flavor to complement the cheese-filled ravioli.
Is it necessary to cover the dish with foil during baking?
Yes, covering with foil for the first part of baking helps the ravioli cook evenly by trapping steam and keeping everything moist. Removing the foil later allows the cheese to brown beautifully.
Can I add meat or vegetables to the recipe?
You can definitely customize this dish! Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms between layers to make it heartier while keeping its simple spirit intact.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Look for gluten-free ravioli options, which are widely available these days. Just be sure any sauce or cheese you use doesn’t have hidden gluten ingredients to maintain a safe meal.
Final Thoughts
If you want a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing meal that delivers all the comfort of lasagna without complicated layers or hours in the kitchen, you will adore this 3 Ingredient Baked Ravioli (Lazy Lasagna) Recipe. It’s a simple, irresistible treat that’s perfect anytime you crave something hearty, cheesy, and satisfying. Give it a try—you’ll wonder why you didn’t discover this lazy lasagna sooner!
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3 Ingredient Baked Ravioli (Lazy Lasagna) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This 3 Ingredient Baked Ravioli, also known as Lazy Lasagna, is a simple and delicious casserole that layers frozen cheese ravioli with pasta sauce and mozzarella cheese. It’s an easy and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep and giving you a cheesy, bubbly dish that’s ready in just under an hour.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 (24oz) bag frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 (24oz) jar pasta sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (heaping)
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Spread Sauce: Evenly spread ¾ cup of the pasta sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a flavorful base layer.
- Layer First Half: Arrange half of the frozen cheese ravioli evenly over the sauce layer, then spoon half of the remaining pasta sauce over the ravioli, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. This layering builds the foundation of the dish.
- Layer Second Half: Repeat the layering process with the remaining ravioli, pasta sauce, and mozzarella cheese. If using, sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese on top to add a nutty, rich finish.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to cook the ravioli thoroughly while keeping the moisture in.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly, giving the dish a delicious crust.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove from oven and let the baked ravioli rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the layers to set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
Notes
- Frozen ravioli can be used straight from the freezer without thawing—no extra prep required.
- You can substitute marinara sauce for pasta sauce according to your flavor preference.
- Adding parmesan cheese on top is optional but adds a nice extra flavor dimension.
- Resting the dish before serving helps it firm up, making serving easier and preventing it from falling apart.
- Feel free to customize by adding herbs like basil or oregano to the sauce for extra flavor.
