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Layered Ravioli with Fresh Tomato Sauce and Basil is a delightful dish that combines the comforting texture of pasta with a vibrant, homemade tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, bringing bold flavors and a fresh twist to your table. The layers of tender ravioli are enveloped in a rich and savory sauce, topped with fragrant basil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, making it a visual and culinary feast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This layered ravioli is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to prepare. With fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: Fresh tomato sauce enhances the ravioli.
- Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients to make it your own.
- Visually Appealing: A stunning dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients
- 9 oz. fresh or frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make Layered Ravioli with Tomato Sauce
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the ravioli according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom.
- Layer half of the cooked ravioli over the sauce, followed by half of the remaining sauce. Sprinkle half of the chopped basil and half of the grated parmesan cheese on top.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ravioli, sauce, basil, and parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use high-quality tomatoes for a richer flavor.
- Don’t overcook the ravioli; they should be al dente since they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Feel free to substitute the cheese ravioli with a different filling, like spinach or mushroom, for variety.
Easy Variations
- Add sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers between the layers for extra nutrition.
- For a meatier dish, incorporate cooked ground beef or sausage into the sauce.
- Swap out the basil for fresh spinach or arugula for a different green flavor profile.
What to Serve With It
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the sauce.
- A glass of red wine for a perfect pairing.
Storage and Reheating
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Leftover layered ravioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 9 oz. fresh or frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pot; sauté onion until translucent.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Cook ravioli according to package instructions; drain.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread a layer of sauce in a baking dish.
- Layer half of the ravioli, half of the sauce, half of the basil, and half of the parmesan. Repeat layers.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Cool for a few minutes before serving; garnish with basil.
Notes: Adjust seasoning to taste and add vegetables or meat as desired.
