Cheesy Pizza Ravioli Bake

Cheesy Pizza Ravioli brings together everything you love about gooey pizza and comforting pasta for a weeknight dinner that feels like the ultimate treat but comes together in under half an hour. This is the kind of dish that makes the whole kitchen smell amazing and guarantees empty plates every single time.

I first made this on a busy school night and instantly knew it was a winner because my kids were literally scraping the skillet clean. Now it is in our regular dinner rotation whenever we want something everyone is excited for.

Ingredients

• Italian sausage: gives the dish a savory meaty flavor base try to get one from the butcher case for best quality
• Marinara sauce: brings a rich tomato backbone look for one with simple ingredients and no added sugar
• Olive oil: helps brown the aromatics
• Yellow onion: adds sweetness and depth choose a firm onion without soft spots
• Italian seasoning, onion powder and garlic powder: layer in classic pizza herby notes buy from a local spice shop for freshness if possible
• Black pepper: for a slight kick of heat
• Mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully and makes everything gooey get a block and shred it yourself for the best melt
• Chopped bacon: adds smokiness and crunch thick cut works best
• Pepperoni slices: create that classic pizza vibe look for cupping pepperoni for extra flavor
• Frozen cheese ravioli: saves so much time use a good quality brand from the freezer section or local Italian deli for best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Skillet:

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it is ready when you are. Place a large oven safe skillet on your stove over medium high heat and pour in the olive oil. Add the diced onion and let it gently sizzle for two to three minutes stirring frequently until it is soft and translucent. This draws out the sweetness and is the first key layer of flavor.

Brown the Sausage:

Crumble in the Italian sausage directly into the skillet. Use a spatula to break up the pieces as it cooks. Let it brown and cook through until there is no pink left which usually takes about seven minutes. Carefully tip the skillet and drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from getting soggy then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning onion powder garlic powder and black pepper. Stir well so every bit of sausage soaks in the spices.

Layer the Sauce Pizza Toppings and Ravioli:

Pour in the marinara sauce making sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to pick up every bit of flavor. Sprinkle in the chopped bacon and lay on your desired number of pepperoni slices. Scatter the frozen cheese ravioli evenly over everything. Gently fold to combine so the ravioli get coated with all those delicious flavors.

Top with Cheese and More Toppings:

Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese all over the skillet making sure every ravioli is covered. Add a few extra bacon bits and pepperoni pieces over the top or any other favorite pizza toppings like sliced olives or bell pepper.

Bake and Broil:

Cover the skillet tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the ravioli are cooked through. Remove the foil and switch your oven to broil on high. Broil for two to three minutes just until the cheese starts to brown and form crispy edges. Watch closely so it does not burn. Serve piping hot right from the skillet.

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My kids beg to pile on extra pepperoni which always leads to a competition of who grabs the cheesiest slice. I love how the mozzarella forms a thick crust on top just like a proper pizza should.

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well tightly covered in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave with a damp paper towel or pop the entire skillet covered into a low oven until hot all the way through. If you want to freeze a panful assemble everything without baking cover tightly and freeze. When ready to eat bake directly from frozen adding fifteen extra minutes to the covered baking time.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For vegetarians skip the meat and double up on mushrooms spinach or roasted peppers. Try smoked gouda or cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella for a deeper flavor twist. For a gluten free version seek out gluten free ravioli shells from specialty grocers.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this cheesy pizza ravioli with a crisp side salad and some garlic bread for a true Italian American feast. For an easy potluck option scoop individual portions into small bowls. You can also top with red pepper flakes or fresh basil once baked if you want to brighten up the flavors.

Cultural Context

This dish is less traditional Italian and more a playful American mash up of pizza night and pasta bakes. Busy families and college students alike love these practical one pan casseroles because they taste indulgent and are so customizable. It is one of those comfort meals you make once and everyone asks for again.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can substitute fresh ravioli, but reduce the baking time slightly, as fresh pasta cooks faster.

→ What other pizza toppings can I add?

Try sliced olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, or extra cheese for more flavor. Add them before baking for best results.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

→ Can I make this dish ahead?

Assemble the ravioli bake a day in advance, refrigerate it covered, and bake just before serving for convenience.

→ Is there a vegetarian version?

Skip the sausage and bacon, and add more vegetables or meatless pepperoni for a delicious vegetarian alternative.