Baked Ravioli with Spinach and Mushrooms
Baked Ravioli with Spinach and Mushrooms
Looking for a hearty, comforting, and easy-to-make dinner that the whole family will love? Baked Ravioli with Spinach and Mushrooms is the ultimate choice! This dish combines layers of tender cheese ravioli, earthy and savory mushrooms, fresh and vibrant spinach, and gooey, melted mozzarella cheese, creating a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s both indulgent and simple to prepare.
Perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or a cozy weekend meal, this baked ravioli recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily add extra vegetables, swap in different cheeses, or even include a protein like grilled chicken or Italian sausage to make it even heartier. The combination of creamy cheese, savory vegetables, and rich marinara sauce makes every bite comforting and satisfying, making it a dish that everyone will rave about.
For a similar quick and indulgent pasta option, try our Creamy Pesto Gnocchi, which features pillowy gnocchi coated in a luscious pesto cream sauce for an equally comforting dinner experience.
Tips for the Best Baked Ravioli
- Use fresh ravioli for the best texture; frozen works too but may need slightly longer baking.
- Don’t skip sautéing mushrooms and onions it brings out richer flavors.
- Adjust cheese layers according to preference more mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
- Add extra veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for color and nutrition.
Variations to Try
- Vegan Option: Use vegan cheese and skip Parmesan.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or turkey for a heartier meal.
- Spicy Version: Mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the marinara.
- Different Cheese: Swap mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or gouda for a new flavor profile.
Baked Ravioli with Spinach and Mushrooms
Notes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing mushrooms and onions.
- 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, thinly sliced – Adds earthy flavor and texture.
- ½ medium yellow onion, finely diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – For aromatic, savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional) – Boosts flavor if your marinara isn’t heavily seasoned.
- 24 ounces marinara sauce – Store-bought or homemade.
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 20 ounces cheese ravioli (refrigerated or fresh) – The main component of the dish.
- 4 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped – Adds freshness and a healthy element.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Gooey, melty goodness.
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping) – Sharp, salty finish.
- Optional: Fresh basil leaves, torn – For garnish and fresh flavor.
- Spread 1 cup of sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer half the ravioli over the sauce.
- Add half of the spinach, followed by ½ cup sauce and 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat with remaining ravioli, sauce, and mozzarella.
- Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
- A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or warm baguette slices.
- Roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Calories: 491 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Sodium: 1446mg
- Fiber: 5g
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
A: Yes! Just thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water before adding.
Q: Is sautéing mushrooms and onions necessary?
A: While optional, sautéing enhances flavor significantly. You can skip it in a pinch, but the taste will be slightly less rich.
Q: Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
A: Absolutely! High-quality jarred sauce works perfectly and saves time.
Q: Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble it the day before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Q: Can I use a different cheese than mozzarella?
A: Yes! Provolone, fontina, or cheddar all work, as long as they melt well.
Conclusion
Baked Ravioli with Spinach and Mushrooms is the ultimate comfort food cheesy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. With layers of tender ravioli, earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella, this dish is easy to make yet feels special enough for family dinners or gatherings.
It’s versatile, allowing you to add proteins, vegetables, or tweak the cheese, and it’s simple enough to prepare in advance. Treat yourself to this warm, cheesy, Italian-inspired meal tonight it’s guaranteed to become a favorite!
For another delicious baked pasta option, try our Baked Spaghetti Casserole for a cheesy twist on a classic family favorite.
