Description
This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish featuring layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese mixtures, and tender frozen cheese ravioli, all baked together to bubbly perfection. It’s perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, delivering both convenience and indulgence in one satisfying casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
Pasta and Cheese Layers
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick during baking.
- Cook the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is fully browned and the onions have softened. Drain any excess fat for a leaner sauce.
- Add Sauces: Stir in the marinara sauce and crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 minutes to blend the flavors well.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, and softened cream cheese. Mix until the texture is smooth and creamy.
- Layer the Casserole – Bottom Sauce Layer: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce across the bottom of your prepared baking dish, creating a flavorful base.
- First Ravioli Layer: Arrange half of the frozen cheese ravioli evenly over the meat sauce layer, ensuring no gaps.
- Cheese Layer: Spread the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the ravioli, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top to add creaminess and flavor.
- Second Sauce Layer: Pour another layer of meat sauce over the mozzarella, then add the remaining ravioli on top in a single layer.
- Top Layers: Cover the second ravioli layer with the remaining meat sauce, followed by the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese to create a cheesy crust.
- Season: Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly over the top to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- Final Bake: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving to add a fresh bite and appealing color.
Notes
- You can substitute frozen ravioli with fresh ravioli, but cooking time may need to be adjusted.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate before baking to save time.
- If you prefer, use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter option.
- Let the casserole rest before serving to avoid hot cheese burns and to allow it to set for cleaner serving slices.
