If you are craving all the comfort and cheesy goodness of classic lasagna but want a quicker, fuss-free version, this No-Boil Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is going to be your new favorite. Imagine layers of tender ravioli, rich sausage, creamy ricotta, and bubbling mozzarella melting together with tangy spaghetti sauce—all baked to perfection without the extra step of boiling noodles. It’s a game-changer for busy weeknights or casual gatherings when you want something hearty and impressive without sweating over complicated prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making each bite satisfying and rich. Each component plays a role, from the savory sausage to the creamy ricotta, so don’t skimp on quality here!
- Frozen cheese ravioli (1 25-oz bag): Using frozen ravioli means no boiling is necessary, saving time while providing pillowy pasta pockets filled with cheesy goodness.
- Spaghetti sauce (1 26-oz jar): A flavorful tomato sauce ties all the layers together and adds a bright, tangy contrast.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): This melts beautifully to create that gooey, irresistible cheese pull we all love.
- Italian sausage (1 lb, casings removed): Adds a savory, meaty element that boosts the heartiness of the dish.
- Ricotta cheese (1 15-oz container): Creamy and mild, ricotta acts as the perfect counterbalance to the tangy sauce and seasoned sausage.
- Large egg (1): Binds the ricotta mixture so it stays nicely layered during baking.
- Dried parsley (1 Tbsp): Adds a subtle herbal note and a pop of color to the ricotta blend.
How to Make No-Boil Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Sausage
Preheat your oven to 350ºF to get it ready for baking. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Remember to drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily while retaining the rich sausage flavor. Setting the sausage aside now means it’s all ready when you start layering the lasagna.
Step 2: Make the Ricotta Mixture
While the sausage cooks, whisk together the ricotta cheese, egg, and dried parsley in a medium bowl. This blend will add creaminess and a nicely seasoned texture to the dish’s layers. The egg helps everything hold together, so this step is key for that perfect slice when serving.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking. Start by spreading one-third of the spaghetti sauce evenly over the bottom. Next, layer half of the frozen ravioli atop the sauce—no boiling needed, just straight from the bag! Spread the ricotta mixture over the ravioli, then sprinkle on the cooked sausage and half of the mozzarella cheese. Add the remaining ravioli as the next layer, and pour the rest of the sauce over them. Finally, top it all with the remaining mozzarella cheese, creating a beautiful, cheesy crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the assembled lasagna uncovered for 30 minutes. This baking time allows the ravioli to cook through thoroughly while the cheese melts and bubbles into a golden, inviting finish. Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes to set before slicing. This little wait helps the layers stay intact and makes serving easier.
How to Serve No-Boil Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Given its hearty and rich profile, a simple garnish works best: a sprinkle of fresh basil or a pinch of freshly grated Parmesan cheese across each slice elevates the flavors without overpowering the dish. A few red pepper flakes bring a little kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. Think a bright green salad with a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is also fantastic for sopping up any leftover sauce and cheese.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at your next dinner party, serve the No-Boil Ravioli Lasagna Recipe in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for personal portions. You can also try layering it in a mason jar for a grab-and-go meal with a rustic flair. Either way, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover lasagna keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, so don’t be surprised if day two tastes even better than day one!
Freezing
You can freeze this lasagna either before baking or after cooking. If freezing before baking, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake uncovered from frozen at 350ºF for about 50 minutes or until hot and bubbly. For after-baking storage, cool completely, portion it out, and freeze in airtight containers.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the lasagna with foil and warm it in a 350ºF oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. For a quick option, microwave individual portions on medium power in 1-2 minute increments, checking to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Do I really not need to boil the ravioli first?
Yes! The No-Boil Ravioli Lasagna Recipe specifically uses frozen ravioli that cooks perfectly in the oven by baking it covered with sauce and cheese. The sauce provides enough moisture for the ravioli to soften without needing boiling beforehand.
Can I use a different kind of ravioli?
Absolutely! While cheese ravioli is classic, you can experiment with spinach, mushroom, or meat-filled ravioli based on your preference. Just be sure to use frozen ravioli that can bake through.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap out the Italian sausage for a plant-based sausage or add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a delicious vegetarian version.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely. Assemble the lasagna and either bake it on the day you want it or refrigerate it overnight and bake it the next day. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead meal!
What’s the best way to slice the lasagna for serving?
Let it cool for at least 5-10 minutes after baking, then use a sharp, serrated knife to cut gently straight down to keep the layers intact and avoid messy slices.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this No-Boil Ravioli Lasagna Recipe—it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that takes away the hassle but keeps all the delightful flavors of classic lasagna. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe promises layers of cheesy, saucy happiness in every bite. Give it a try soon, and I bet it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen!
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No-Boil Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This No-Boil Ravioli Lasagna is a quick and comforting Italian-inspired casserole that layers frozen cheese ravioli with savory Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, tangy spaghetti sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, all baked to perfection without the need to boil pasta beforehand.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
Dairy
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 (15-oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
Produce & Herbs
- 1 Tbsp dried parsley
Pantry
- 1 (25-oz) bag frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 (26-oz) jar spaghetti sauce
- Cooking spray, as needed
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the lasagna evenly.
- Cook Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks, until it is no longer pink throughout. Drain any excess grease and set the cooked sausage aside.
- Mix Ricotta Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and dried parsley. Stir well until the ingredients are fully incorporated and set this mixture aside for layering.
- Assemble the Lasagna Base: Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spread one-third of the spaghetti sauce evenly across the bottom of the dish. Then, layer half of the frozen cheese ravioli over the sauce.
- Add Ricotta and Sausage Layers: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the ravioli layer, then sprinkle the cooked Italian sausage on top. Follow this by scattering half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sausage.
- Layer Remaining Ravioli: Add the remaining ravioli over the mozzarella cheese layer, creating a second layer.
- Top with Sauce and Cheese: Spread the remaining spaghetti sauce over the top ravioli layer, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Bake the Lasagna: Place the assembled dish uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top, and the ravioli is cooked through.
Notes
- Using frozen ravioli eliminates the need to boil pasta, saving time and simplifying the recipe.
- Ensure sausage is fully cooked and drained well to avoid excess grease in the lasagna.
- Feel free to substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey or a vegetarian sausage for a lighter or meatless version.
- Let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow it to set for easier slicing and serving.
- You can add extra herbs like basil or oregano to the ricotta mixture for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
