Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Gratin de Ravioles recipe! This delectable dish features tender ravioli enveloped in a rich, cheesy béchamel sauce, baked to perfection until golden and bubbly. Ideal for a cozy dinner or a hearty family meal, this recipe combines the savory flavors of cheese with the creamy goodness of béchamel, creating a satisfying and delicious meal. Perfect for pasta lovers and those seeking an indulgent twist on classic ravioli.

Ingredients:

- 500g fresh or frozen ravioli (cheese or meat filling)

- 2 cups grated cheese (such as Gruyère or mozzarella)

- 2 tablespoons butter

- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

- 2 cups whole milk

- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

- Salt and black pepper to taste

- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook Ravioli: If using frozen ravioli, cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare Béchamel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste, but do not let it brown. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Season with nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.

Assemble Gratin: In a greased baking dish, spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce. Arrange a layer of cooked ravioli on top, then cover with more béchamel sauce. Sprinkle with grated cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of béchamel sauce and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve: Let the gratin cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your rich and creamy Gratin de Ravioles!

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a side of garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Values

Ravioli:

   - Calories: 250-300

   - Protein: 8-10g

   - Carbohydrates: 30-40g

   - Fat: 10-15g

Benefits:

   - Provides a good source of protein, especially if stuffed with meat.

   - Contains essential vitamins and minerals depending on the filling (e.g., iron from meat or calcium from cheese).

Grated Cheese (Gruyère or Mozzarella):

   - Calories: 350-400

   - Protein: 20-25g

   - Carbohydrates: 0-2g

   - Fat: 25-30g

Benefits:

   - Rich in protein and calcium, which supports bone health.

   - Contains vitamin A and B12, important for immune function and red blood cell production.

Butter:

   - Calories: 700

   - Protein: 0.5g

   - Carbohydrates: 0.1g

   - Fat: 80g

Benefits:

   - Provides a good source of fat for energy.

   - Contains vitamins A, D, E, and K, which support various bodily functions.

All-Purpose Flour:

   - Calories: 364

   - Protein: 10g

   - Carbohydrates: 76g

   - Fat: 1g

Benefits:

   - Provides energy through carbohydrates.

   - Contains small amounts of B vitamins and iron.

Whole Milk:

   - Calories: 61

   - Protein: 3.2g

   - Carbohydrates: 4.8g

   - Fat: 3.3g

Benefits:

   - Good source of calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health.

   - Provides protein and essential vitamins like B12 and riboflavin.

Nutmeg:

   - Calories: 525

   - Protein: 5.8g

   - Carbohydrates: 49.3g

   - Fat: 36.3g

Benefits:

   - Contains antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress.

   - May aid digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Parmesan Cheese (for topping):

   - Calories: 431

   - Protein: 38g

   - Carbohydrates: 4g

   - Fat: 29g

Benefits:

   - High in protein and calcium.

   - Contains vitamins A and B12, which are beneficial for overall health.

This Gratin de Ravioles recipe offers a rich source of protein, calcium, and essential vitamins. The combination of ravioli, cheese, and béchamel sauce provides a hearty and comforting meal. However, it's also relatively high in calories and fat, so it’s best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.