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Baked Ravioli Casserole with Meat Sauce

Baked Ravioli Casserole with Meat Sauce

  • Author: Brian
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Enjoy a comforting Easy Baked Ravioli Casserole with Meat Sauce featuring tender baked ravioli, smoky turkey bacon, and creamy plant-based cheeses baked to bubbly perfection. This quick and flavorful casserole is perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings, offering a delightful meal with rich meat sauce, fresh herbs, and a luscious plant-based cheese finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat Sauce

  • 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb mince
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp natural tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 1 tsp fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh oregano, chopped
  • 1/4 tsp natural gelling agent

Casserole Layers

  • 1 package (about 20 oz) baked ravioli
  • 1 cup ricotta-style plant-based cheese
  • 1 cup shredded plant-based cheese (mozzarella-style or your choice)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: Begin by cooking the diced smoked turkey bacon in a large pan over medium heat until crispy. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the ground beef or lamb mince, breaking it up with a spoon and cooking until browned. Mix in the crushed tomatoes, natural tomato paste, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, fresh basil, oregano, and the natural gelling agent. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer gently for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
  2. Cook the Ravioli: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the baked ravioli and cook just until tender but still firm to the bite, about 2-3 minutes. Drain well and set aside to prevent sogginess in the casserole.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ravioli in an even layer. Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta-style plant-based cheese over the ravioli, then sprinkle the chopped fresh spinach evenly. Layer the remaining ravioli on top, followed by the rest of the meat sauce. Finish by generously topping with shredded plant-based cheese for a creamy, gooey crust.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown. Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to set the layers and make slicing easier.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs added at the end for enhanced freshness and flavor.
  • Do not overcook ravioli; slightly undercooked ravioli hold their shape well after baking.
  • Layer ricotta-style plant-based cheese evenly to create creamy pockets throughout the casserole.
  • Let the casserole rest before serving to help it set and improve slicing.
  • Adjust the quantity of natural gelling agent to achieve your preferred sauce thickness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 casserole
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: baked ravioli, meat sauce casserole, smoked turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, comfort food, quick dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://puretastekitchen.com/baked-ravioli-casserole-with-meat-sauce/