If you’re searching for an irresistible, low-effort Italian-inspired dinner that practically guarantees empty plates, this Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. With comforting layers of cheesy ravioli, robust meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s everything you love about classic lasagna, but with a shortcut that makes it perfect for busy families or anyone who just wants a fuss-free meal. Let your slow cooker do all the magic while you get on with your day, and come home to a hearty, bubbling supper that smells just like Nonna’s kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity—each ingredient is picked for maximum flavor and minimal effort. Together, they create a symphony of savory, cheesy, and saucy goodness that’s impossible to resist. Here’s what you need and why you’ll love it:
- Olive Oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps brown the meat beautifully.
- Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Delivers hearty flavor and makes the sauce deeply satisfying.
- Onion: Provides a sweet, aromatic base that rounds out the sauce.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with classic Italian zest and warmth.
- Italian Seasoning: Brings an herby, aromatic boost that ties all the flavors together.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other ingredients.
- Marinara Sauce: The heart of the lasagna—choose your favorite jar for ease and deliciousness.
- Frozen Cheese Ravioli: The ultimate shortcut—no need to boil, just layer and go!
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts to gooey, stringy perfection for that classic lasagna top.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth and a golden finish.
- Ricotta Cheese (optional): For extra creaminess between the layers, if you like it rich.
- Fresh Basil: A bright, fragrant garnish that makes every bite pop with freshness.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef or Italian sausage and the diced onion, cooking until the meat is browned and the onion is nice and soft—about six minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This step sets the savory foundation, ensuring every layer of your Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is packed with flavor. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat for a lighter, less greasy sauce.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
With your meat mixture ready, pour in the marinara sauce and let it all simmer together for two minutes. This melds the flavors so the sauce tastes like it’s been cooking for hours, even though it’s only been a few minutes. The aroma at this point is pure comfort food bliss!
Step 3: Layer in the Crockpot
Spray the inside of your crockpot with nonstick spray to make serving (and cleanup) a breeze. Spread a thin layer of your meat sauce on the bottom—this prevents sticking and ensures the ravioli cooks evenly. Arrange a single layer of frozen cheese ravioli over the sauce, then top with more sauce, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and a shower of Parmesan. If you’re feeling extra decadent, add dollops of ricotta between layers. Repeat the process, building those gorgeous lasagna layers, and finish with a generous topping of sauce and cheese.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Pop the lid on and set your crockpot to low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. The ravioli will become tender, the cheese gloriously melty, and the flavors will marry together just like a traditional lasagna. When the top is bubbling and golden, you’ll know it’s ready!
Step 5: Add a Fresh Finish
Just before serving, scatter the chopped fresh basil over the top. This final touch lifts the whole dish and makes your Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe look as fabulous as it tastes. Scoop, serve, and watch everyone dive in!
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil is the classic choice, but a dusting of extra Parmesan or a few chili flakes can add a little extra zing. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of good olive oil or a handful of chopped parsley brings a burst of color and freshness to your Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or tender roasted veggies balances the richness. A basket of warm garlic bread for mopping up the sauce is always a crowd-pleaser, making your meal feel like a true Italian-American feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe in individual ramekins for a dinner party, or scoop it into shallow bowls for a rustic, cozy vibe. If you’re hosting, top with a basil leaf and a Parmesan crisp for that restaurant-style wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover lasagna keeps beautifully! Simply let your Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe cool completely, then transfer portions to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to four days—perfect for quick lunches or a repeat dinner later in the week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes like a dream. Once the lasagna is fully cooled, portion it out and wrap tightly or use freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to two months. Just label and date for easy grab-and-go meals whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop portions in the microwave until hot, or warm in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F until bubbly. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first for best results. The flavors actually deepen over time, making leftovers just as delicious as day one!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in spinach, mushroom, or even meat-filled ravioli for a fun twist on the Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe. Just make sure to keep the ravioli frozen so they cook up perfectly in the slow cooker.
Is it okay to make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the meat and sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil, then add extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. Use vegetarian ravioli and you’ll have a delicious meatless version everyone will love.
Can I assemble the lasagna the night before?
You can! Layer everything in your crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just pop it into the slow cooker and set the timer. Dinner will be ready with zero extra effort.
Do I need to thaw the ravioli first?
No need at all—using frozen ravioli is what makes the Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe such a time-saver. They’ll cook perfectly right in the crockpot without getting mushy.
What’s the best way to prevent sticking?
A quick spray of nonstick cooking spray in your crockpot before layering ensures easy serving and less mess. Starting with a layer of sauce on the bottom also helps keep everything from sticking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about a bubbling lasagna, especially when it’s this easy. If you’ve never tried the Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe before, give it a whirl and see why it’s a favorite in so many kitchens. I hope it brings your family together around the table, full and happy. Go on—let your slow cooker do the work, and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!
Print
Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (low) or 2 hours 45 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is a delicious and convenient twist on classic lasagna, layering frozen cheese ravioli with savory meat sauce and melted cheeses in a slow cooker for a perfect, fuss-free family meal.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
Lasagna Layers
- 20-ounce package frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the meat is browned and the onion is softened, about 6 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Drain any excess fat. Add marinara sauce and simmer for 2 minutes to blend flavors.
- Prep the Crockpot: Spray the inside of the crockpot with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
- Assemble Layers: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the crockpot. Arrange a single layer of frozen ravioli on top. Spoon more meat sauce over the ravioli, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. If using ricotta, dollop it between layers for added creaminess. Repeat layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and cheese on top.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the ravioli is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped basil for a bright, herbal finish. Serve warm and enjoy your easy crockpot ravioli lasagna!
Notes
- You can use spinach or mushroom ravioli instead of cheese ravioli for variety.
- For a creamier texture, add dollops of ricotta cheese between layers.
- This recipe freezes well after cooking; cool completely, portion, and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (low) or 2 1/2 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
