Costco Ravioli Lasagna is a convenient, pre-made dish combining layers of ravioli, cheese, and sauce; Perfect for busy households, it offers a satisfying meal with minimal effort.
What is Costco Ravioli Lasagna?
Costco Ravioli Lasagna is a pre-made, layered pasta dish featuring ravioli, rich meat sauce, and a blend of cheeses. Designed for convenience, it combines the comfort of homemade lasagna with the ease of a ready-to-bake meal. Perfect for families or gatherings, it offers a hearty, satisfying flavor profile with minimal preparation required. The dish is crafted to deliver a delicious, cheesy, and savory experience straight from the oven, making it a popular choice for quick yet flavorful meals.
Ingredients and Supplies Needed
- Pre-made Costco Ravioli Lasagna
- Mozzarella cheese for extra topping
- Kitchen shears or a knife
- Aluminum foil
- Baking sheet
Key Ingredients in Costco Ravioli Lasagna
Costco Ravioli Lasagna features layers of cheese-filled ravioli, rich meat-based sauce, and a blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan cheese. The dish includes seasoned ground beef or pork, garlic, and onions, with herbs like oregano and basil. The sauce adds depth, while the cheese provides creaminess. This combination creates a hearty, flavorful meal that satisfies pasta lovers. The ingredients are pre-assembled, making it easy to bake at home for a delicious, comforting dinner.
Essential Cooking Utensils and Tools
To prepare Costco Ravioli Lasagna, you’ll need a preheated oven, a large cookie sheet, and aluminum foil for covering. A sturdy serving spatula and oven mitts are also essential for safe handling. Additionally, a sharp knife or utensils for portioning may be useful. Ensure all tools are heat-resistant and suitable for high-temperature cooking. Proper utensils will help you achieve a perfectly cooked, evenly heated dish every time.
Cooking Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 60-70 minutes. Check for readiness by ensuring the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for optimal cooking. Ensure the oven is fully preheated before placing the dish inside. For frozen ravioli lasagna, preheat to 350°F (180°C). Place the dish on a cookie sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent overbrowning. Proper preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect texture. Allow the oven to reach the desired temperature for at least 10-15 minutes before baking.
Preparing the Dish for Baking
Start by removing the clear plastic lid from the Costco Ravioli Lasagna. For an extra cheesy touch, spread an additional 8 ounces of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Next, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Place the lasagna on a cookie sheet, ensuring it’s centered and stable. This preparation ensures even heating and helps retain moisture during baking, while the added cheese enhances flavor and texture.
Covering with Aluminum Foil
Covering the Costco Ravioli Lasagna with aluminum foil is essential to prevent the top layer from burning and ensure even heating. Gently place the foil over the dish, creating a tent to allow steam to escape. This step helps the lasagna cook uniformly while keeping the cheese intact. Make sure the foil is loosely covered to avoid trapping too much moisture, which can affect the texture of the dish. Proper coverage ensures a perfectly cooked and flavorful result. Always use heavy-duty foil for best results.
Baking Time and Temperature
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the Costco Ravioli Lasagna covered with aluminum foil for 60-70 minutes. For even heating, place it on a cookie sheet. After 60 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes to brown the top. Use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for food safety. If using a convection oven, reduce the temperature slightly and monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
Checking for Readiness
To ensure the Costco Ravioli Lasagna is fully cooked, check for a few key signs. The sauce should be bubbly around the edges, and the cheese on top should be melted and slightly golden. Use a thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid overcooking, as the dish can dry out. Gently remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes to check the top layer. If the cheese is golden and the lasagna is hot throughout, it’s ready to serve.
Serving and Presentation
Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve hot, portioned into equal slices. Pair with garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal. Add fresh herbs for a polished presentation.
Letting the Dish Rest
Once baked, allow the Costco Ravioli Lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This step ensures the layers set properly, preventing the dish from becoming runny. The cheese will firm up slightly, making it easier to portion neatly. Use this time to prepare side dishes or garnishes like fresh herbs or garlic bread. Resting enhances the overall texture and presentation, delivering a more satisfying meal experience for everyone. It’s a simple yet crucial step for optimal results.
Portioning and Plating
Once baked, let the lasagna rest for a few minutes to set the layers. Slice into even portions for a clean presentation. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for added appeal. This ensures each plate is appetizing and evenly distributed, making it perfect for family meals or gatherings.
Suggested Side Dishes
Pair Costco Ravioli Lasagna with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A simple Caesar salad or steamed broccoli adds a healthy contrast. For a more indulgent option, garlic knots or a side of sautéed spinach complement the dish beautifully. A caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil also provides a light, flavorful finish. These sides enhance the meal without overpowering the lasagna’s rich flavors.
Enhancing Presentation
Enhance the visual appeal of your Costco Ravioli Lasagna by adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top for a vibrant finish. Drizzle with a small amount of marinara sauce around the plate for added color contrast. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over the dish to create a golden, inviting appearance. For a professional touch, let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before slicing, ensuring clean, even portions. These simple steps elevate the dish’s presentation, making it a standout for any meal.
Tips for Customization
Enhance your Costco Ravioli Lasagna by adding extra cheese, fresh herbs, or your favorite protein. Customize with vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a personalized touch.
- Add a layer of ricotta or marinara sauce for extra flavor.
- Incorporate cooked ground beef or sausage for added protein.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil for a vibrant finish.
Adding Extra Cheese
Enhance the richness of your Costco Ravioli Lasagna by adding extra cheese. Sprinkle 8 ounces of shredded mozzarella or a blend of cheeses on top before baking. For an extra creamy touch, mix in ricotta or parmesan. Cover with foil to prevent burning, then bake as instructed. Remove foil during the last 10-15 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and bubble. This customization adds a indulgent, cheesy layer to the dish, making it even more satisfying and flavorful.
Incorporating Herbs and Spices
Add fresh or dried herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley for extra flavor. Sprinkle garlic powder or Italian seasoning on top before baking. For a spicy twist, mix red pepper flakes into the sauce. Thyme or rosemary can enhance the dish’s aroma, while paprika adds a smoky note. Experiment with layers of herbs between the ravioli for a customizable taste. This step allows you to personalize the dish to your family’s preferences, making it more delicious and satisfying.
Adding Protein or Vegetables
- Add cooked ground beef or pork to the sauce for extra flavor and protein.
- Mix in sautéed spinach or steamed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrients.
- Incorporate cooked sausage or bacon bits for a hearty twist.
- Layer shredded rotisserie chicken or roasted vegetables for variety.
This customization enhances the dish’s flavor and nutritional value while keeping it satisfying and delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Common mistakes include incorrect oven temperature, improper foil tenting, and overcooking. Ensure accurate temperature, proper foil coverage, and timely checks to avoid these errors.
Incorrect Oven Temperature
Using the wrong oven temperature is a common mistake when cooking Costco Ravioli Lasagna. If the oven is too hot, the dish may burn or dry out, while a temperature that’s too low can result in undercooked layers. Ensure your oven is preheated to the recommended 375-400°F (190-200°C) for even cooking. Always double-check the temperature before placing the lasagna inside to avoid uneven results and potential food safety issues. Proper heating ensures a perfectly cooked, cheesy, and flavorful meal every time.
Not Tenting the Foil Properly
One common mistake is failing to tent the aluminum foil correctly. This can cause the foil to stick to the cheese or sauce, leading to uneven heating. Proper tenting ensures the dish cooks uniformly without the foil adhering to the top layer. If the foil is too tight, it may prevent steam from circulating, potentially undercooking parts of the lasagna. Always create a loose tent to avoid these issues and achieve a perfectly baked dish.
Overcooking the Dish
Overcooking can dry out the ravioli and make the cheese tough. To prevent this, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the top is golden but not overly browned. Avoid prolonged baking beyond the recommended 60-70 minutes, as this can lead to a hard, crusty texture. Always check the dish midway to assess its progress and adjust the remaining cooking time if necessary. This ensures a creamy, flavorful result rather than a burnt or overcooked meal.
Nutritional Information
Costco Ravioli Lasagna typically contains approximately 300-400 calories per serving, with significant amounts of protein, carbs, and fat. It also includes sodium and essential vitamins from the ingredients.
Calorie Content
Costco Ravioli Lasagna is a hearty dish with a calorie count estimated to range between 300-400 per serving, depending on portion size. The dish is rich in carbohydrates, cheese, and protein, making it a satisfying yet calorie-dense meal. Exact nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. For precise calorie content, it’s best to refer to the packaging or consult Costco’s official nutritional guide for this product.
Macronutrient Breakdown
Costco Ravioli Lasagna provides approximately 350 calories per serving, with 22g of fat, 24g of carbohydrates, and 18g of protein. The dish is rich in saturated fat and sodium, primarily from cheese and pasta. Carbohydrates come from the ravioli and sauce, while protein is sourced from meat and dairy. This balanced macronutrient profile makes it a satisfying, filling meal option for various dietary preferences and needs.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Costco Ravioli Lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat at 350°F, covered with foil, until hot and bubbly.
Storing Unused Portions
After cooking, let the Costco Ravioli Lasagna cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-5 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking. When reheating, ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat Costco Ravioli Lasagna, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispy top, remove foil for the last 5 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety. Avoid overheating, as it may dry out the pasta and cheese. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This method maintains flavor and texture effectively.
Cooking Costco Ravioli Lasagna is a breeze, offering a delicious, cheesy meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy days, it satisfies cravings and impresses with its rich flavors. Whether for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. By following simple steps, you can enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal. Give it a try and discover why it’s a favorite for many!