Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna

A Comforting, Easy-to-Make Meal

Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is a delicious, no-fuss twist on traditional lasagna. By using frozen ravioli in place of lasagna noodles and ricotta filling, this dish simplifies the preparation while still delivering rich, cheesy, and saucy flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you crave a hearty Italian-inspired meal without the hassle of layering multiple ingredients.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Prep: No need to boil pasta or layer multiple ingredients separately.
• Set It and Forget It: The slow cooker does the work, making it a hands-off meal.
• Family Favorite: A comforting, cheesy dish that kids and adults both enjoy.
• Customizable: Easily switch up the protein, cheese, or sauce to suit your taste.

---

Ingredients

• 1 bag (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach or basil (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt and pepper (to taste)
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing

---

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Meat

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned.
• Drain excess grease and stir in the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.

2. Assemble the Layers in the Crockpot

• Lightly grease the crockpot with cooking spray or butter.
• Spread a small amount of the sauce mixture on the bottom.
• Add a layer of frozen ravioli on top of the sauce.
• Spoon more sauce over the ravioli.
• Sprinkle with some ricotta (if using), shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
• Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

3. Cook the Ravioli Lasagna

• Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours until the ravioli is tender and the cheese is melted.

4. Serve and Enjoy

• Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh basil or spinach, and enjoy warm.

---

Possible Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Creamier Texture: Mix some heavy cream or cream cheese into the sauce.
• Different Cheese Blend: Use a mix of provolone, fontina, or cheddar for a unique flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free ravioli.

---

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 to 8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours on low (or 2 to 3 hours on high)
• Total Time: Up to 6 hours

---

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Cool completely and freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until heated through.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the ravioli from getting too mushy?

Using frozen ravioli helps prevent overcooking. Avoid cooking for more than 6 hours on low.

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time to 2-3 hours on low, as fresh pasta cooks faster.

Do I need to thaw the ravioli before cooking?

No, frozen ravioli works best straight from the freezer.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish in the crockpot and store it in the fridge overnight before cooking.

What’s the best meat for this recipe?

Italian sausage adds more flavor, but ground beef, turkey, or chicken work well too.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers are great additions.

Do I have to use ricotta cheese?

No, you can skip it or substitute cottage cheese for a similar texture.

Can I double the recipe?

If your slow cooker is large enough (6-quart or bigger), you can double the ingredients.

Can I cook this in the oven instead?

Yes! Bake at 375°F for about 30-40 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

What’s the best way to serve this dish?

Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

---

Conclusion

Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors of a classic lasagna with minimal effort. With its rich layers of cheese, sauce, and tender pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this slow cooker recipe is a must-try!

Print