**Ultimate Beef and Cheese Ravioli Bake**
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
**Introduction**
Dive into a world of comfort food with the ultimate beef and cheese ravioli bake. Think layers of tender pasta, filled with creamy cheese, coated in a succulent beef sauce, and topped with meltingly delicious cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering.
**Why Make This Recipe**
This dish shouts comfort in every bite. It’s hearty, filling and has all the flavours you love in one casserole dish. The lasagna-like layers of beef and cheese are mind-blowingly delicious. Plus, it is easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
**How to Make Ultimate Beef and Cheese Ravioli Bake**
**Ingredients :**
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
24 oz marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 package (20 oz) cheese ravioli
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
**Directions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain those extra fat.
3. Saute onion and garlic in the same skillet until they soften.
4. Mix in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for around 5 minutes.
5. Spread a layer of the meat sauce at the base of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Arrange half of the ravioli on the sauce, sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese.
7. Repeat the layers with remaining ingredients, finishing with the mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake further 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
10. Allow the dish to cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil if preferred, and serve hot.
**How to Serve Ultimate Beef and Cheese Ravioli Bake**
This dish is best served hot, right out of the oven. A side of garlic bread or a fresh salad makes great companions to the hearty flavours of this bake.
**How to Store Ultimate Beef and Cheese Ravioli Bake**
To store, let it cool completely. Then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until bubbly.
**Tips to Make Ultimate Beef and Cheese Ravioli Bake**
Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting results. Pre-bagged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents which may lead to a less creamy texture.
**Variation**
For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with a mix of vegetables.
**FAQs**
1. *Can I use other types of pasta?*
Yes, cheese tortellini or any large pasta shapes capable of holding sauce like rigatoni can be used.
2. *Can I freeze this dish?*
Yes, cool it completely then cover and freeze. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake until bubbly.
3. *Can I add other types of cheese?*
Yes, adding different kinds of cheese will add complexity to the flavour. You can try cheddar, fontina, or gouda.