Tired of spending hours in the kitchen but still craving a comforting, delicious lasagna? This recipe uses Costco's amazing cheese ravioli to create a quick, easy, and surprisingly impressive lasagna that's perfect for a busy weeknight. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that doesn't require hours of prep! This recipe is all about simple elegance, perfect for those seeking delicious dishes and best recipes without sacrificing time. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Ingredients:
- 1 (40-ounce) package Costco cheese ravioli (or your favorite brand)
- 2 (24-ounce) jars of your favorite pasta sauce (marinara works wonderfully)
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This is a crucial step for easy cleanup later!
Preparing the Ricotta Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. This simple mixture adds incredible flavor and creaminess.
Assembling the Lasagna:
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Spread a thin layer of pasta sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This creates a flavorful base for your lasagna.
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Arrange a single layer of ravioli over the sauce. Slightly overlap them if needed to cover the bottom evenly.
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Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the ravioli layer.
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Top with another layer of pasta sauce.
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Repeat layers: ravioli, remaining ricotta mixture, and the remaining pasta sauce.
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Finish with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese, ensuring it covers the entire top.
Baking and Serving:
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
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Let the lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing much easier.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Lasagna:
- Don't overcook the ravioli: Since the ravioli are already cooked, you don't want to overbake the lasagna and make them mushy.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor that dried basil just can't match.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the ricotta mixture and the sauce before assembling the lasagna and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add sauteed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the ricotta mixture for extra flavor and nutrients. This is a great way to boost the nutritional value of this already healthy meal.
Variations:
- Meat Lovers Lasagna: Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the pasta sauce for a heartier meal.
- Vegetarian Lasagna: Use a vegetable-based pasta sauce and add sauteed vegetables to the ricotta mixture.
- Spicy Lasagna: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture or the pasta sauce for a little kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-450 Protein: Approximately 15-20g Fat: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-55g
This easy recipe offers a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy your delicious and easy Costco Ravioli Lasagna! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's simple enough for beginners and satisfying for experienced cooks alike. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create truly delicious food recipes.