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Baked Ravioli Casserole with Meat Sauce

Baked Ravioli Casserole with Meat Sauce


  • Author: Samuel
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Baked Ravioli Casserole with Meat Sauce is a comforting and hearty one-dish meal featuring tender cheese-filled ravioli layered with a savory ground beef and smoked turkey bacon meat sauce, topped with melted plant-based cheese. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it combines simple ingredients and easy preparation with rich, satisfying flavors.


Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Ravioli Layer

  • 1 package cheese-filled ravioli (fresh or frozen, about 20 ounces)

Meat Sauce

  • 6 ounces smoked turkey bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 24 ounces tomato sauce (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1/4 cup grape juice (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Toppings and Garnishes

  • 2 cups plant-based cheese, shredded
  • Fresh basil or chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped smoked turkey bacon. Cook until crisp, then add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Stir in the tomato sauce, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, grape juice, and natural gelling agent. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
  2. Cook the Ravioli: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the cheese-filled ravioli and cook just until they float to the surface, about 2 to 3 minutes. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in a large casserole dish to prevent sticking. Arrange half of the cooked ravioli evenly over the sauce. Spoon more meat sauce over the ravioli and sprinkle with a generous amount of plant-based cheese. Repeat the layers with remaining ravioli, sauce, and top with the rest of the plant-based cheese to form a golden crust.
  4. Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the plant-based cheese is melted and golden in spots. Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle and intensify.

Notes

  • Distribute ingredients evenly to ensure every bite has a balance of sauce and cheese.
  • Stir in fresh basil or parsley before baking for added brightness.
  • Cook ravioli just until they float to avoid a mushy texture after baking.
  • Allow casserole to cool slightly before serving for easier portioning and better flavor melding.
  • For extra gooeyness, add a few tablespoons of plant-based cream to the sauce before assembling.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: baked ravioli casserole, meat sauce, plant-based cheese, family dinner, comfort food, gluten free