Description
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is an easy, cheesy baked pasta dish that combines the flavors of lasagna with a simple, no-fuss preparation. Made with ravioli, marinara sauce, and a creamy cheese mixture, this family-friendly recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.
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
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Preheat the 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 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!
Notes
- Meatless Option: Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
- Spicy Kick: Use spicy Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes.
- Alfredo Twist: Substitute marinara with Alfredo sauce and use chicken instead of beef.
- Three-Cheese Delight: Try a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and fontina for extra cheesiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Ravioli casserole, cheesy pasta bake, baked ravioli, easy weeknight dinner, family-friendly casserole