If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty, and cheesy dinner that feels like a special treat, look no further than this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. This dish combines the flavors of rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella with tender cheese ravioli to create a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain the excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Combine Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes.
- Layer the Casserole: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce. Layer half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce. Spread ricotta cheese evenly over the ravioli, then top with half of the mozzarella cheese. Add another layer of the remaining sauce, then the remaining ravioli. Top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish & Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Conclusion:
This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is the perfect combination of hearty and creamy, with layers of flavors that will make your family ask for seconds. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Pair it with a fresh salad and some garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.