Description
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a hearty and cheesy baked pasta dish featuring layers of frozen cheese ravioli, savory ground beef marinara sauce, and a creamy blend of cheeses. This comforting casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering a rich combination of flavors and textures baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 (25 oz) bag frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Meat and Veggies: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aroma.
- Make the Sauce: Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors, then remove it from the heat.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, softened cream cheese, and ricotta cheese. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Layer the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Then layer half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce, followed by half of the cheese mixture. Spread half of the remaining meat sauce over the cheese layer. Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli, cheese mixture, and meat sauce.
- Add Cheese Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to heat through and melt the cheeses.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground Italian sausage for the ground beef to add extra flavor.
- For a spicier variation, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce while simmering.
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake, making it convenient for busy days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
