Description
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a hearty and comforting baked pasta dish featuring layers of cheese-filled ravioli, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese mixtures, all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan. This satisfying casserole is perfect for family dinners, combining Italian flavors with ease and convenience.
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
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
Other Ingredients
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cook the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat to keep the sauce from being greasy.
- Add Sauces: Stir in the marinara sauce and crushed tomatoes into the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, blending the flavors together.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, and softened cream cheese. Mix until smooth and well blended, creating a creamy layer for the casserole.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Add Ravioli Layer: Place half of the frozen cheese ravioli in a single layer over the meat sauce to create the base pasta layer.
- Add Cheese Mixture and Mozzarella: Spread the prepared ricotta mixture evenly over the ravioli, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top to add richness.
- Second Meat Sauce and Ravioli Layer: Pour another layer of meat sauce over the mozzarella and then add the remaining ravioli in a single layer.
- Top with Meat Sauce and Cheeses: Cover the ravioli with the remaining meat sauce, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Season: Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the entire casserole to enhance the flavors.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to heat through and meld the layers.
- Final Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let it set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a fresh, bright flavor.
Notes
- Using frozen ravioli saves time and adds cheesy goodness. Do not thaw before layering.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meat option.
- If you prefer spicier sauce, add red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning.
- Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free ravioli.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
