Introduction

Lasagna di ravioli with spinach and sausage is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with the convenience of using store-bought ravioli. This recipe not only saves time, but it also packs a punch of taste that will satisfy both adults and children alike. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple cooking method, you can whip up this hearty meal in no time.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Fresh spinach: 300 grams
– Italian sausage: 400 grams
– Store-bought ravioli (spinach and ricotta): 250 grams
– Tomato sauce: 500 milliliters
– Mozzarella cheese: 200 grams, grated
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Salt: to taste
– Pepper: to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese: for topping

Prep Time

Approximately 10 minutes.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking the lasagna.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. Break it into small pieces with a spatula for even cooking.

Step 3: Add Spinach

Add fresh or frozen spinach to the skillet and cook until the spinach is wilted or heated through, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Mix with Cheese

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage and spinach with ricotta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna

In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer ravioli, followed by the filling mixture and then another layer of marinara sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with ravioli and sauce on top.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top of the final layer.

Step 7: Bake the Lasagna

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Let It Cool

Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Note 1: Variations

Feel free to add other vegetables or substitute different types of cheese based on your preferences.

Note 2: Storage

Leftover lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Note 3: Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. It’s perfect for browning ingredients like sausage to enhance their flavor before layering in the dish.

Layering

Layering is the process of arranging ingredients in a specific order, usually in a baking dish. For lasagna, it typically consists of alternating layers of pasta, filling, and sauce to create a balanced dish.

Baking

Baking uses dry heat in an oven to cook food evenly, which is essential for dishes like lasagna to ensure all layers are heated through and flavors meld beautifully.

Cheese Melting

Melting cheese involves heating it until it becomes soft and gooey. In lasagna, a mix of cheeses creates a creamy texture and rich flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Resting

Resting is letting the dish sit for a few minutes after baking. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve, while also improving the overall flavor as it cools slightly.

FAQ

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of pasta, but ensure they are suitable for layering and cooking time.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can omit the sausage and add more vegetables or substitute with plant-based sausage for a delicious vegetarian version.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

You can substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or a vegan alternative for a similar texture and flavor.

Can I prepare this lasagna in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time, assemble it, and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

How long should I let the lasagna rest before serving?

Let the lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set properly.

Conclusion

Lasagna made with ravioli, spinach, and sausage offers a delicious twist on traditional pasta dishes. It is a quick and convenient meal that combines rich flavors with ease of preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The use of ravioli as the base simplifies layering while maintaining the classic lasagna experience.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Ravioli Lasagna

Substitute sausage with a medley of sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a meat-free option.

Chicken Alfredo Ravioli Bake

Use chicken-filled ravioli layered with creamy Alfredo sauce and spinach for a decadent twist.

Four-Cheese Ravioli Stack

Layer four types of cheese-stuffed ravioli with marinara sauce and mozzarella for a cheesy delight.

Beef and Broccoli Ravioli Casserole

Combine beef ravioli with steamed broccoli and a creamy cheese sauce for a comforting one-dish meal.

Pesto Ravioli Lasagna

Swap out the tomato sauce for basil pesto, layering it with cheese and spinach for a fresh and vibrant flavor.

Seafood Ravioli Bake

Incorporate shrimp, scallops, and a light white sauce with seafood ravioli for a luxurious seafood lasagna.