For over a decade, Trader Joe’s fresh vegetable ravioli has remained a consistently popular choice for shoppers looking for an affordable, high-quality meal solution. Priced under $4 per package, these frozen-friendly pockets of pasta offer convenience without sacrificing taste.
The Appeal of Trader Joe’s Ravioli
The appeal lies in the simplicity: fresh pasta filled with zucchini, eggplant, and mozzarella cheese. Shoppers frequently stock up, buying two packages at a time—one for immediate use and another to freeze for later. The ravioli’s versatility allows for quick weeknight dinners, and its frozen storage capability makes it a pantry staple.
Beyond Boiling: An Oven-Baked Recipe
While the package instructions recommend boiling, a popular method involves an oven-baked skillet dish. This technique requires minimal effort and utilizes just four ingredients: cream, spinach, Pecorino Romano cheese, and the Trader Joe’s ravioli itself. The cream-based sauce reduces during baking, thickened by the pasta’s starches, creating a rich and effortless coating.
How to Make the Skillet Bake
- Sauté the Spinach: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Heat 8 ounces of cream in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add 5 ounces of spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in two tablespoons of grated Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Layer and Bake: Arrange one package of Trader Joe’s vegetable ravioli in the skillet, drizzling another quarter-cup of cream over the top. Sprinkle with an additional two tablespoons of cheese.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven for 25 minutes, or until browned on top. Allow to cool slightly before serving. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
Trader Joe’s vegetable ravioli provides a simple, affordable, and versatile meal solution that has stood the test of time for many shoppers. Its convenience and quality make it a reliable option for quick dinners and freezer stock-ups.
