Looking for a dish that’s rich, cheesy, and guaranteed to impress? Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is the answer! This baked pasta dish layers tender cheese ravioli with hearty meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and bubbling mozzarella. It’s the ultimate comfort food and a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for something indulgent.
The Backstory
This recipe has been a lifesaver for hosting gatherings or feeding my family on busy weeknights. It’s a no-fuss take on lasagna with a twist—the frozen ravioli acts as the perfect shortcut! The creamy ricotta filling and gooey cheese topping make this dish feel extra indulgent, earning it the nickname “Million Dollar” casserole.
Are you ready to turn your kitchen into a haven of cheesy, baked goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Recipe Instructions (with USA Measurements)
Ingredients:
- 1 (25 oz) package frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can marinara sauce
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 3: Add the Marinara Sauce
To the skillet, stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread half of the meat sauce mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese over the ravioli and spread it out gently. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta. Repeat the layering process with the remaining sauce, ravioli, ricotta, and mozzarella. Finish by topping with the grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
Let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness, if desired. Dish up and enjoy this cheesy, hearty masterpiece!
Pro Tips for Success:
- Meat Substitutions: Swap the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative to suit your preferences.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 10 extra minutes to the covered cooking time.
- Veggie Boost: Add a layer of sautéed spinach or diced zucchini between the ravioli layers for added nutrition.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole with a crisp Caesar salad and warm, buttery garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal. A glass of red wine or a sparkling lemon water makes an excellent drink pairing.
Final Thoughts
This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole brings all the comforting flavors of a traditional baked pasta dish with none of the fuss. It’s a reliable recipe for feeding a crowd or simply treating your family to something special. Try it out today and let me know how your loved ones enjoy it! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and follow me for more delicious creations. 🍽️
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