This lazy lasagna uses store-bought ravioli as the pasta layers, which cuts the prep time of a traditional lasagna. It’s on the table in about 65 minutes.
The dish makes 8 servings for a total cost of $9.97, or $1.25 per serving.
What this costs
These are estimated costs based on typical U.S. supermarket store-brand prices in September 2026. Prices vary by store and region, so treat them as a guide.
| Ingredient | Amount used | Pack size | Pack price | Recipe cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Store-bought ravioli (spinach & ricotta) | 1 lb | 1 lb package | $4.00 | $4.00 |
| Jarred marinara sauce | 3 cups | 24 oz jar | $2.50 | $2.50 |
| Grated mozzarella cheese | 3 cups | 16 oz bag | $4.50 | $3.38 |
| Olive oil | 1 teaspoon | 16 oz bottle | $5.00 | $0.05 |
| Salt | to taste | 26 oz container | $1.50 | $0.02 |
| Black pepper | to taste | 4 oz container | $2.00 | $0.02 |
| Total recipe cost | $9.97 | |||
| Cost per serving | 8 servings | $1.25 |
Ingredient cost = pack price ÷ pack quantity × amount used. Cost per serving = total recipe cost ÷ servings.
Ingredient notes and cheaper swaps
Ravioli
Spinach and ricotta ravioli gives a classic lasagna feel, but other flavors like mushroom, four-cheese, or beef ravioli also work. Frozen ravioli works as well as fresh; don’t thaw it beforehand, as it can get mushy, and add a few extra minutes to the covered baking time.
Marinara Sauce
Look for a jarred marinara with a robust tomato flavor and minimal added sugar. Store-brand sauces are often just as good as name brands and significantly cheaper. If you have some homemade tomato sauce on hand, it is an even more budget-friendly option.
Mozzarella Cheese
Grating a block of mozzarella yourself is often slightly cheaper per pound than pre-shredded bags and can melt a bit more smoothly. To stretch the cheese further, mix in a small amount of grated Parmesan or a blend of Italian cheeses.
How to Make Lazy Lasagna Step by Step
Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little olive oil. Spread about half a cup of the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the dish to keep the ravioli from sticking.
Arrange about a third of the ravioli in a single layer over the sauce, side by side without large gaps; slight overlap is fine. Sprinkle a generous handful of grated mozzarella over the ravioli, then spread about a cup of marinara sauce over the cheese and pasta.
Repeat with another third of the ravioli, a handful of cheese, and another cup of sauce. Finish with the remaining ravioli, the rest of the marinara sauce, and a final layer of mozzarella that covers the top completely.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil; the cheese should be mostly melted and the sauce simmering. Bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 165°F. For full quantities and detailed steps, refer to the recipe card below.
Tips for the best results
- Cover Tightly: A well-sealed foil cover steams the ravioli so they become tender and cook through without getting crispy too soon.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes after baking so the layers set and it slices without falling apart.
Storing, freezing and reheating
Leftover lazy lasagna keeps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in glass food storage containers for up to 2-3 months and thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the microwave, or covered with foil in a 350°F oven until bubbling and hot, about 20-30 minutes for individual servings or 30-40 minutes for a larger portion.
Serving ideas and variations
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for dipping in the extra sauce.
- Simple Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the rich lasagna.
- Add Protein: Brown 1/2 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage and stir it into the marinara sauce before layering for a heartier meal. This is also a good way to use up leftover cooked sausage.
- Extra Veggies: Sauté spinach, sliced mushrooms, or diced bell peppers and add them between the ravioli layers.
Lazy Lasagna
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Spread about 1/2 cup of the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange approximately one-third of the ravioli in a single layer over the sauce, trying to minimize large gaps.
- Sprinkle a handful of grated mozzarella cheese over the ravioli, then top with about 1 cup of marinara sauce, spreading it gently.
- Repeat with another layer of ravioli, a handful of cheese, and another cup of marinara sauce.
- Finish with the remaining ravioli, the last cup of marinara sauce, and generously cover the top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the layers to set.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen ravioli for this recipe?
Yes, absolutely! You can use frozen ravioli directly from the freezer. There’s no need to thaw it first, but you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time to ensure it cooks through completely.
What kind of marinara sauce should I use?
Any jarred marinara sauce you enjoy will work well. For the best flavor, choose a brand with good quality ingredients and a robust tomato taste. Store-brand options are often budget-friendly and delicious.
Can I add meat to this lazy lasagna?
Yes, you can easily add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or even shredded chicken to this recipe. Simply brown the meat, drain any excess fat, and stir it into your marinara sauce before layering the lasagna.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it in an oven at 350°F until heated through and bubbly.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lazy lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time since it will be going into the oven cold.
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