Easy Cheese Ravioli Recipes for Weeknight Dinners

When the week feels like a whirlwind of errands, meetings, and after-school activities, having a few go-to dinner ideas that are both comforting and quick can be a game-changer. Cheese ravioli is one of those weeknight saviors: simple, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Whether you grab a fresh batch from a local market or keep a stash of frozen ravioli in your freezer, there’s no shortage of ways to turn this classic pasta into a standout meal.

If you're looking for high-quality options, try the Cheese Ravioli from Nicola’s Marketplace—handcrafted with premium ingredients and packed with flavor.

Here are some easy cheese ravioli recipes that bring flavor and convenience to your weekday table.

1. Ravioli with Brown Butter Sage Sauce

Why it works: This minimal-ingredient recipe delivers gourmet flavor with pantry staples.

Ingredients:

• Cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
• Unsalted butter
• Fresh sage leaves
• Grated Parmesan
• Salt & pepper

How to make it:

1. Cook ravioli according to package directions.
2. While it's cooking, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sage and cook until butter browns slightly and sage crisps.
3. Drain the ravioli and gently toss in the brown butter sauce.
4. Serve with Parmesan and a dash of black pepper.

Tip: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest for a bright finish.

2. Baked Cheese Ravioli Casserole

Why it works: It’s like lasagna, but easier and faster. Perfect for a family-style dinner.

Ingredients:

• Cheese ravioli
• Marinara sauce
• Shredded mozzarella
• Ricotta (optional)
• Italian seasoning

How to make it:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ravioli just until al dente.
3. Layer ravioli in a baking dish with marinara, mozzarella, and optional dollops of ricotta.
4. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbling.

Tip: Make it a meatier version by adding cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the marinara.

3. One-Pan Ravioli Primavera

Why it works: It’s a complete, colorful dinner packed with veggies all in one pan.

Ingredients:

• Cheese ravioli
• Olive oil
• Cherry tomatoes
• Zucchini
• Bell peppers
• Garlic
• Fresh basil or parsley

How to make it:

1. Sauté chopped veggies and garlic in olive oil until just tender.
2. Add cooked ravioli and toss to combine.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.

Tip: Add a spoonful of pesto for an herby twist.

4. Cheese Ravioli in Creamy Tomato Sauce

Why it works: Creamy, rich, and kid-approved. It’s comfort food at its finest.

Ingredients:

• Cheese ravioli
• Canned crushed tomatoes
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Garlic
• Parmesan
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

How to make it:

1. Cook ravioli and set aside.
2. In a skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil, then add crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in cream and Parmesan.
4. Toss in ravioli and warm through.

Tip: For added texture, top with crispy breadcrumbs or serve with garlic bread.

5. Lemon Garlic Cheese Ravioli with Spinach

Why it works: Light and fresh. This dish is perfect when you want something fast but not too heavy.

Ingredients:

• Cheese ravioli
• Fresh spinach
• Garlic
• Lemon juice and zest
• Olive oil
• Parmesan

How to make it:

1. Cook ravioli and reserve some pasta water.
2. In a skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil, add spinach, and cook until wilted.
3. Add cooked ravioli, lemon zest, and juice. Loosen with pasta water as needed.
4. Finish with Parmesan.

Tip: Toss in some pine nuts or toasted walnuts for crunch.

Make It Even Easier: Time-Saving Tips

• Go fresh or frozen: Both work great. Just adjust the cooking time.
• Batch prep sauces: Make large portions of tomato or cream-based sauces ahead and store in the fridge.
• Add pre-cooked proteins: Rotisserie chicken, sautéed shrimp, or grilled sausages pair well with cheese ravioli.
• Use what’s in season: Roasted butternut squash in the fall, fresh peas in spring. Ravioli adapts to every season.

The Bottom Line

Cheese ravioli isn’t just a sidekick to red sauce. It’s a blank canvas for all kinds of creative, weeknight-friendly meals. Whether you’re leaning cozy or craving something fresh, these simple recipes help you make the most of this humble pasta in just 30 minutes or less. Keep a bag in your fridge or freezer, and you’ll always have dinner halfway done.

Want to mix things up? Check out the Ravioli Sampler – 4 Bags of Ravioli from Nicola’s Marketplace for a variety pack that makes weeknight dinners even more exciting. While you’re there, explore our take-and-bake sfogliatelle, classic cannoli, and other artisanal desserts for a truly authentic Italian experience.