Every day after work, I do the same thing: I take off my shoes, light the candle that smells of “freshly cleaned home,” and settle into my favorite position on the couch. If you expect me to share my enthusiasm for books or TV shows, you’re mistaken. There’s something far better than that. My mind starts to wander to the kind of meal I want to prepare for dinner. But let me tell you! For some reason, I find a lot of joy in cooking, especially when the dish at hand is both easy and delicious.
To be completely honest, there are times when I just don’t feel like cooking because of all the supplies and tasks involved. When my mind is completely drained, I just need something to lift my spirits without forcing myself into a routine. That’s when my four-ingredient ravioli lasagna comes into play. There’s no doubt that this dish requires only four basic components, a few simple actions, and a whole lot of happiness.
I suppose I should mention that this dish has become my go-to. The fact that it’s really easy to understand certainly contributes to its appeal, but it’s not just that. It’s a comforting dish that can make you feel as if you’re receiving a warm hug. Indulge in the comforting aroma of homemade Italian cuisine with this cheese-and-meat-based meal. The best part? The ingredients are usually already in your pantry or fridge, so it’s a breeze to prepare.
The recipe comes from Simply Recipes, by Meghan Splawn.
That’s the original source of this dish. I remembered I had things to do just before my dinner with a group of friends. Nothing seemed simple or quick enough as I thought about everything I could whip up. That’s when I stumbled upon the ravioli lasagna recipe from Simply Recipes. It was like a light bulb went off; I couldn’t believe I hadn’t thought of it before. What started as an occasional event in my kitchen has now become the norm, and I’m sure it will do the same for you.
Ingredients Breakdown
Now that we’ve set the scene, let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish shine. With so few components, you’d think it’s lacking in flavor, but that couldn’t be further from the truth! The beauty of this lasagna lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients.
- Ravioli: You can use store-bought ravioli (cheese, meat, or veggie) or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. Fresh or frozen, ravioli add a delightful texture and heartiness to the dish.
- Marinara Sauce: A good-quality store-bought marinara sauce can make all the difference. If you have a homemade version tucked away in your freezer, even better! The sauce acts as the flavorful glue that ties all the elements together.
- Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that ooey-gooey goodness, but you can also add ricotta or parmesan for additional richness and flavor.
- Ground Meat (Optional): While this ingredient is technically optional, ground beef, turkey, or sausage can elevate your lasagna to new heights. It brings a hearty element that pairs beautifully with the ravioli and sauce.
Preparation Steps
Now let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to bring this dish to life. You’ll find that the steps are incredibly straightforward, leaving you with just enough time to unwind before dinner.
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your lasagna cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Cook the Ground Meat: If you’re using ground meat, heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meat and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat and season lightly with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Layer it Up:
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Next, add a layer of ravioli. If they’re frozen, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand.
- Then, sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese over the ravioli.
- If you’re using ground meat, this is the time to add a layer of the cooked meat on top of the cheese.
- Repeat these layers until you run out of ingredients, ending with a layer of sauce topped with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Once done, let your lasagna cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This makes it easier to cut and enjoy without it falling apart.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The beauty of this four-ingredient dinner is its versatility. You can customize it to fit your preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Not a fan of meat? Leave it out. Prefer a lighter meal? Substitute with spinach or kale and add some ricotta cheese for creaminess. Want to spice things up? Add some red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the marinara sauce for an extra kick.
Moreover, this recipe is a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen. They can help layer the ingredients, making it a fun and interactive cooking experience for the whole family. Plus, they’ll be more excited to eat a meal they helped create!
Meal Prep Perfection
One of the most significant benefits of this recipe is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily double or triple the recipe and assemble multiple lasagnas for the week ahead. Simply follow the steps above, and once you’ve created the layers, you can cover and refrigerate the dish for up to three days.
When you’re ready to bake one, preheat your oven as before, remove the foil, and bake it until heated through. It’s an excellent way to ensure you have delicious home-cooked meals on hand after a long day.
Leftover Lovin’
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare since it’s that good), they store well in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or pop them back in the oven until warmed through. Trust me; the flavors get even better as they meld together overnight.
Pairing Suggestions
While this ravioli lasagna is a star on its own, consider serving it with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar or garlic bread to round out the meal. A light dessert, like a sorbet or fruit salad, can also be a refreshing way to finish off your dinner.
A Taste of Tradition
You may wonder where this recipe fits into the broader landscape of Italian cuisine. While traditional lasagna often involves more ingredients and steps, this dish pays homage to the classic flavors while streamlining the process for busy weeknights. It’s the kind of comfort food that reminds you of home, family gatherings, and those cozy nights with loved ones around the table.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, this four-ingredient ravioli lasagna is not just a dish; it’s a testament to the joy of cooking with simplicity and integrity. It shows that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or complicated techniques to create a meal that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart.
Whether you’re coming home from a hectic day, trying to impress friends, or just cooking for yourself, this recipe fits the bill every time. I hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen as it has in mine.
So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a dinner that you’ll be making again and again. Bon appétit!
