Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole: A Cheesy, Baked Delight

If you love the rich, comforting flavors of lasagna but want a quicker, easier version, then Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is the perfect dish. This cheesy, baked pasta recipe layers ravioli with a creamy, flavorful mixture of cheeses and marinara sauce to create an irresistible meal. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when you need a crowd-pleasing dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Assembly – Uses frozen or fresh ravioli for minimal prep time.
• Tastes Like Lasagna – Has all the flavors of lasagna but without the hassle of layering noodles.
• Cheesy & Comforting – Packed with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a creamy, melty delight.
• Family-Friendly – A hit with kids and adults alike.
• Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

• 1 (25-ounce) bag frozen or fresh cheese ravioli
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Nonstick cooking spray

Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease and stir in the marinara sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

• Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Arrange half of the ravioli over the sauce in a single layer.
• Spread half of the cheese mixture over the ravioli, followed by half of the remaining meat sauce.
• Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella over the top.
• Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli, cheese mixture, and meat sauce.
• Finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!

Variations

• Meatless Option – Skip the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
• Spicy Kick – Use spicy Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes.
• Alfredo Twist – Swap marinara for Alfredo sauce and use chicken instead of beef.
• Three-Cheese Delight – Use a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and fontina for extra cheesiness.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Assemble the casserole and freeze unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

FAQs

How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?

Make sure to drain any excess grease from the meat and avoid adding extra liquid to the sauce.

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh ravioli works just as well and may reduce baking time by about 5 minutes.

What can I serve with ravioli casserole?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Try cottage cheese instead of ricotta or add gouda for a smoky flavor.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Use two baking dishes or a larger pan to accommodate extra servings.

How do I make it healthier?

Use lean ground turkey, low-fat cheeses, and whole wheat ravioli.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini would be delicious additions.

Do I need to cook the ravioli before baking?

No, the ravioli will cook as the casserole bakes.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the flavors of lasagna with the simplicity of baked pasta. It’s cheesy, hearty, and easy to prepare, making it a perfect go-to meal for busy nights or special gatherings. Whether you follow the classic recipe or try a variation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

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