Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: Utilizing frozen cheese ravioli and jarred marinara sauce streamlines the preparation process, allowing you to create a hearty meal without extensive cooking.
- Versatility: This casserole is easily adaptable to various tastes. You can substitute ground beef with Italian sausage or incorporate vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to suit your preferences.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: The dish can be assembled in advance and refrigerated or frozen, providing a convenient option for busy schedules or planned gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 package (25 ounces) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage until fully cooked. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce and crushed tomatoes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, softened cream cheese, and sour cream. Mix until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and the Parmesan cheese until well incorporated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce. Evenly spread the cheese mixture over the ravioli. Add another layer of the remaining ravioli, followed by the rest of the meat sauce.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving to help it set.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add layers of sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Cheese Alternatives: Substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a different texture and flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate spicy Italian sausage or add extra crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for added heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Allow the casserole to cool completely. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or cover the baking dish with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly.
FAQs
What type of ravioli works best for this casserole?
Frozen cheese ravioli is recommended for its convenience and flavor, but you can also use fresh ravioli or other fillings like spinach or meat, depending on your preference.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Leftovers can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add layers of sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique flavor profile.
How do I prevent the cheese from burning on top?
Covering the casserole with foil during the initial baking time prevents the cheese from burning. Removing the foil towards the end allows the cheese to brown nicely.
Is it necessary to cook the ravioli before baking?
No, there’s no need to pre-cook the frozen ravioli; it will cook through during the baking process.
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage are excellent alternatives to ground beef.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
The Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a delectable and satisfying dish that brings the comfort
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, a hearty Italian-inspired dish featuring layers of tender cheese ravioli, savory meat sauce, and a creamy cheese blend. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole is a crowd-pleaser packed with rich flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 package (25 ounces) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Meat Sauce: Brown meat in a skillet, add onion and garlic. Stir in marinara, crushed tomatoes, and seasonings. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: Combine ricotta, cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth.
- Assemble Casserole: Layer sauce, ravioli, and cheese mixture in the dish. Repeat layers, topping with remaining sauce and mozzarella.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 10-15 minutes more until bubbly.
- Rest: Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or plant-based protein for variations.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
- Make-ahead option: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours or freeze unbaked for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
