Save This lazy lasagna is the ultimate weeknight comfort food that feels and tastes homemade without all the classic lasagna fuss. Store-bought ravioli get layered with savory marinara, rich ricotta, and plenty of mozzarella for a bubbling, creamy bake the whole family will love. The prep is fast, the cleanup is minimal, and every cheesy bite delivers pure Italian-American coziness.
On my busiest nights, this lazy lasagna has saved dinner more times than I can count. The first time I made it for a potluck, all of it disappeared before I even got to sit down. Now every time I bake it, someone asks for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated cheese ravioli: These stand in for traditional lasagna noodles and filling at the same time Look for ones with a firm texture and plenty of filling for the best results
- Marinara sauce: The flavorful base that ties everything together Use your favorite jarred brand or a simple homemade sauce
- Ricotta cheese: Brings a creamy layer that balances the tangy sauce Fresh, full-fat is classic but part-skim can lighten things up
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into that gooey stretchy topping everyone loves Use block mozzarella for better melt and fewer additives
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and a touch of umami Try to buy real Parmigiano-Reggiano if possible for best flavor
- Dried Italian herbs: Offer depth and aroma A blend of basil oregano and thyme is perfect
- Garlic powder: Enhances the flavor without the need to mince fresh garlic Make sure it is fresh and aromatic
- Salt: Brings all the flavors together Use fine sea salt for more even seasoning
- Black pepper: Adds just enough heat Use freshly ground for max aroma
- Fresh basil: For garnish if you have it Adds freshness and a touch of color
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit Or 190 degrees Celsius and let it fully preheat Coat a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with a thin layer of oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking
- Mix the Ricotta Layer:
- In a medium mixing bowl combine the ricotta cheese dried Italian herbs garlic powder salt and black pepper Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and the seasonings are evenly distributed Every spoonful should have a bit of flavor in it
- Create the First Sauce Layer:
- Pour one cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly This not only flavors the bottom layer but also prevents the ravioli from sticking
- Layer the Ravioli:
- Arrange half of the cheese ravioli in a snug single layer over the sauce Try not to overlap the pasta so it cooks evenly and absorbs just enough sauce
- Add Ricotta and Cheeses:
- Spoon and spread half of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli Use the back of your spoon to gently smooth it out Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella and a quarter cup of Parmesan evenly across the ricotta This triple-cheese layer builds creamy richness
- Add More Sauce:
- Pour one cup of marinara evenly over the cheese This second layer keeps everything flavorful and moist as it bakes
- Finish the Layers:
- Repeat with the rest of the ravioli arranged as before followed by the remaining ricotta mixture another cup of mozzarella another quarter cup of Parmesan and the rest of your marinara sauce Save a bit of mozzarella for sprinkling on top
- Top and Bake:
- Finish by scattering the reserved mozzarella over the very top Cover the dish snugly with foil so the cheese melts before browning Place in the oven and bake for twenty five minutes
- Uncover and Brown:
- After twenty five minutes carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another ten to fifteen minutes The top should be bubbling and turning golden brown If you like things extra-bubbly run it under the broiler for the last two minutes
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the lasagna sit for at least ten minutes so it can set and serving is easier Sprinkle with fresh chopped basil just before bringing it to the table
Save Mozzarella is always the star in our house I love the way it melts into stretchy threads across the top My kids are always first in line for those golden cheesy corners and making this together is our Sunday tradition
Storage Tips
Once baked and cooled lazy lasagna keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days Store it tightly covered or portioned into airtight containers To reheat cover with foil and warm in a moderate oven or quickly zap portions in the microwave for fast lunchbox leftovers
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap the cheese ravioli for spinach or even sausage-filled options For a lighter touch use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella Gluten-free ravioli work fine if you adjust your baking time since they tend to cook a little faster
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines next to a crisp green salad and maybe garlic bread to soak up the sauce I love pairing it with roasted broccoli or sautéed spinach for a veggie boost For a hearty meal serve with antipasto skewers or a tangy Italian vinaigrette
Cultural Context
Lazy lasagna reflects the Italian-American love for hearty crowd-pleasing meals while leaning into the practical shortcuts busy families need Ravioli bakes like these have been passed down at Sunday dinners and make appearances at everything from holiday potlucks to weeknight suppers
Seasonal Adaptations
Add layers of sautéed zucchini or eggplant in summer Toss in roasted butternut squash in fall for sweetness Swirl pesto into the ricotta for a bright spring flavor
Success Stories
This is my go-to recipe when friends drop by unannounced The easy assembly makes it perfect for group cooking Kids love helping layer the ravioli and cheese Everyone always asks for leftovers and never guesses how quickly it came together
Freezer Meal Conversion
Assembly is the same but stop before baking Wrap the unbaked dish tightly in foil and freeze for up to two months When ready to serve bake straight from the freezer covered for thirty five minutes then uncover and finish baking as usual Add an extra five to ten minutes to the time as needed
Save Enjoy this cheesy comforting lazy lasagna for any busy night or family dinner It is sure to become a tradition everyone asks for again and again
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use frozen ravioli?
Yes, frozen ravioli can be used. Thaw overnight or add a few minutes to the baking time if layering frozen directly.
- → What cheeses work best for this dish?
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan create a creamy texture and rich flavor. Lighter cheeses can be substituted for a leaner meal.
- → How do I add extra vegetables?
Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can be layered with the ravioli for enhanced texture and flavor variety.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead?
Yes, assemble the dish a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, adding extra time if chilled.
- → Can I make it gluten-free?
Substitute with gluten-free ravioli and check all packaging for allergen information to ensure suitability.
- → What sides pair well with this meal?
Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a balanced, satisfying dinner experience.