Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 25 oz frozen cheese ravioli
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no pink remains, then drain excess fat.
  2. Stir in minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the marinara sauce and simmer on low for 5 minutes to meld flavors, then remove from heat.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta, beaten egg, Parmesan, and parsley until the consistency is smooth and velvety.
  5. Spread 1/2 cup of the meat sauce across the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  6. Place a single layer of frozen ravioli over the sauce, followed by a layer of the ricotta blend and additional meat sauce.
  7. Repeat layers and top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
  8. Bake covered with aluminum foil to trap moisture and hydrate the ravioli, then remove the foil and bake at high heat to brown and caramelize the cheese.
  9. Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves before serving.