½cuploosely packed fresh basilchopped (may sub 1 tablespoon dry)
Ravioli Filling:
2poundFROZEN ravioliI like spinach and mozzarella
1 ½cupsricotta
½cupbasil pesto
½cupfreshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Brown beef in a large skillet over medium high heat. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Transfer to plate with a slotted spoon.
To the remaining grease, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and heat over medium high heat. Add onion and saute for 5-8 minutes or until soft and translucent. Add garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes and saute 1 minute. Stir in all of the remaining “Tomato Basil Sauce” ingredients EXCEPT milk fresh basil and bring to a simmer. Simmer gently uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Add all of the Ravioli Filling ingredients to a large bowl and toss until ravioli is evenly coated.
After sauce has simmered 10 minutes, stir in 1/4 cup milk, 1/4 cup Parmesan and fresh basil to Tomato Basil Sauce. Stir until well combined.
Spread ½ cup of Tomato Basil Sauce in lightly greased 9x13 casserole dish. Layer 1/2 of the Ravioli Filling, 1/2 of the Meat, 1/2 of remaining sauce and 1/2 of the mozzarella. Repeat layers. Top with ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan.
Cover tightly with foil and bake at 400 degrees for 40-45 minutes or until ravioli is cooked through then remove foil and broil cheese until golden.