Ravioli Primavera Casserole
A creamy, cheesy ravioli casserole loaded with broccoli and colorful vegetables, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering comforting flavors with a hint of herbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 2-quart baking dish.
- Cook the ravioli according to the package directions.
- While the ravioli cooks, prepare the sauce by melting butter in a saucepan.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the sauce.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked ravioli, broccoli, green onions, and bell pepper strips.
- Pour the sauce over the mixture and toss to combine.
- Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, you can substitute half-and-half for some of the milk. If you're short on time, use pre-chopped vegetables or frozen mixed vegetables instead of fresh. To elevate the dish, consider adding some grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese before baking. This casserole also pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Ravioli Primavera Casserole is perfect for a family dinner and can be served with a light green salad or crusty bread. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with Italian recipes like Perfect Meatballs. The casserole also makes for great meal prep, as it reheats well for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ravioli Primavera Casserole contains roughly 616 calories, with 20g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (194% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (134% of the Daily Value), and calcium (107% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. It also contributes 37g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of ravioli?
Absolutely! While cheese ravioli works wonderfully, you can use any type of ravioli you prefer, such as spinach or mushroom. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions of the ravioli you choose.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your ravioli is made from gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer delicious gluten-free options that will work perfectly in this casserole.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).