Name: Ravioli Casserole: Savor the Ultimate Comfort Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 24 ounces Cheese Ravioli (Use frozen or fresh); 1 pound Ground Beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced, fresh garlic preferred); 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese (Substitute with cottage cheese if desired); 8 ounces Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded, use fresh for better creaminess); 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning (or a blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme); 32 ounces Marinara Sauce (Use homemade or quality store-bought); 1 cup Vegetables (e.g., spinach, mushrooms) (Blend into the layers for extra nutrition); Different Sauces (e.g., Alfredo) (For a unique twist)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The aroma of melted cheese and savory marinara filled the kitchen, drawing my family in as I pulled the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole from the oven. This delightfully hearty dish combines layers of cheesy ravioli with a rich ground beef sauce, creating a perfect comfort food that’s surprisingly easy to make. Not only does it come together quickly for busy weeknights, but it also makes for an impressive centerpiece at family gatherings. With a golden, bubbly surface and creamy layers that beckon for a fork, it’s a meal that’s bound to win over even the pickiest eaters. Ready to dive into this crowd-pleaser? Let’s get started on making your new favorite culinary masterpiece!

lbdc6bubunwpqp7jcuru

Why is this Ravioli Casserole a Must-Try?

Ultimate Comfort: This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole offers a warm embrace of cheesy goodness, creating a heartwarming meal anyone will adore.
Flavor Fusion: Rich ground beef mingles with savory marinara and creamy ricotta to deliver an irresistible taste experience that delights every palate.
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy evenings, this dish comes together seamlessly and can be prepared in just under an hour.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for family dinner or a potluck, its hearty layers are guaranteed to impress guests and keep them coming back for more.
Versatile Options: Feel free to switch out the meat or add veggies like spinach for a healthful twist—adapt it to suit your needs! If you’re a fan of casseroles, you might also enjoy our Eggs Benedict Casserole for a delicious breakfast idea.

Ravioli Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole
• Cheese Ravioli – A wonderful base; use frozen or fresh ravioli for convenience and ease.
• Ground Beef – Adds a rich, hearty flavor; consider swapping with ground turkey for a lighter touch.
• Garlic – Elevates the aroma of the dish; fresh garlic packs more punch than garlic powder.
• Ricotta Cheese – Creates that creamy texture layer; substitute with cottage cheese for fewer calories.
• Mozzarella Cheese – The melting topping that brings it all together; fresh mozzarella gives a delightful creaminess.
• Italian Seasoning – Infuses the casserole with flavor; alternatively, mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme for your own blend.
• Marinara Sauce – The delicious sauce base that ties everything; feel free to use homemade or good-quality store-bought.

Optional Additions
• Vegetables (e.g., spinach, mushrooms) – Add extra nutrition and flavor; they blend beautifully into the casserole’s layers.
• Different Sauces (e.g., Alfredo) – Change up the flavor profile; explore using a creamy white sauce for a unique twist.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole will bake evenly and reach the perfect temperature by the time you’re ready to serve. Gather a 9×13-inch baking dish, and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, letting it cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned. As the meat cooks, add in minced garlic for the last minute, stirring to release those aromatic flavors. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from becoming watery, and set the skillet aside.

Step 3: Layer the Ravioli
Spread half of the cooked cheese ravioli evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. This forms a solid base for your casserole. Next, make sure the ravioli are arranged neatly to ensure every bite experiences the delightful layers of flavor that the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is known for!

Step 4: Add Sauce and Ricotta
Spread half of the marinara sauce over the layer of ravioli, ensuring it covers them well. Follow this with half of the ricotta cheese, dolloping it generously and smoothing it out gently with the back of a spoon. This combination adds creamy richness, enhancing the overall flavor of your casserole.

Step 5: Repeat the Layers
Create another layer by adding the remaining cheese ravioli on top, followed by the rest of the marinara sauce. Finish with the remaining ricotta cheese, ensuring it is evenly distributed. This stacking technique delivers layers of flavor, making every bite of the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole a comforting experience.

Step 6: Top with Mozzarella
Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top layer. Use fresh mozzarella for a luxurious finish if you have it. This cheesy topping will melt beautifully, creating that golden, bubbly surface that makes this casserole so inviting and delicious.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Transfer the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbling and golden brown on top, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect, hearty texture of the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve. The delicious combination of flavors and textures will surely impress your family and friends as you dish up this comforting meal!

bnvbb9ki3ujyjp1yjqbm

Ravioli Casserole Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, allowing your creativity to shine through with every bite!

Vegetable-Packed: Add chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the meat layer for a nutritious boost that enhances flavor and texture.
Dairy-Free: Substitute non-dairy cheeses and use marinara without added dairy to create a delicious, comforting dish that everyone can enjoy.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or jalapeños for those who love a little heat in their meals. The added spice will give your casserole a fiery twist!
Italian Sausage: Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to infuse the dish with a rich, hearty flavor. This option makes each layer even more savory.
Alfredo Sauce: Replace marinara with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a rich and indulgent comfort food experience that’s wonderfully different yet just as satisfying.
Herb-Infused: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish. Sprinkle them on top before serving for an aromatic touch that bursts with freshness.
One-Pan Wonder: Mix in some pre-cooked chicken to create a one-pan meal that utilizes leftovers or adds a hearty protein without much effort.
Topped with Parmesan: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking for an extra layer of flavor and a delightful crispy topping.

Don’t forget, if you’re a casserole fan, our Eggs Benedict Casserole could be a perfect brunch addition to your meal repertoire! Embrace the joy of cooking and let your taste buds guide your variations!

What to Serve with Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Creating the perfect meal experience is all about wonderful accompaniments that enhance your casserole’s delightful flavors.

Garlic Bread: This crispy delight brings a buttery aroma and garlic richness that pairs beautifully with the casserole, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness, offering a crunchy contrast that rejuvenates the palate between cheesy bites.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, slightly charred asparagus adds a touch of elegance and a light crunch to your dinner table, wonderfully balancing the dish’s hearty flavors.
Sautéed Spinach: This vibrant side is not only nutritious, but its earthy taste complements the ravioli casserole beautifully, adding a touch of freshness to each mouthful.
Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Silky and creamy potatoes blended with garlic enhance the richness of the casserole and create a comforting, indulgent experience.
Italian Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Merlot amplifies the meal’s Italian heartiness, welcoming a warm finish that ties all the ingredients together.
Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian treat of coffee-soaked layers and mascarpone adds a sweet, creamy conclusion to your culinary journey, rounding out the comforting flavors perfectly.

Expert Tips for Ravioli Casserole

• Avoid Watery Casserole: Ensure the ground beef is well-drained before layering, preventing excess moisture that can make the casserole soggy.

• Let It Rest: Allow your casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve.

• Cover with Foil: For even cooking, cover the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking to avoid over-browning your cheese topping.

• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality marinara sauce and fresh mozzarella for a restaurant-style flavor experience in your ravioli casserole.

• Layer Wisely: Take your time arranging each layer evenly to ensure a balanced distribution of flavors and textures throughout the casserole.

Make Ahead Options

These Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to prep in advance for easy meal planning! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours ahead of time—just layer the ravioli, beef, sauce, and cheeses as instructed. To maintain quality, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil in the refrigerator to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, remove the wrap and adjust the baking time to about 40-45 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s heated through and the cheese is bubbly. This simple prep step guarantees a delightful meal with minimal last-minute fuss!

How to Store and Freeze Ravioli Casserole

Fridge: Store leftover ravioli casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to preserve the flavors.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can last for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through and the cheese is bubbly.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the ravioli casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it uncooked. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!

qssp6w1rydabfq7ivmbi

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of cheese ravioli should I use?
You can use either frozen or fresh cheese ravioli for this casserole. Frozen ravioli is super convenient and easy to come by, while fresh ravioli can bring that delightful homemade taste. Just make sure to check the cooking instructions on the package, especially if you’re using frozen—sometimes they need a quick boil before layering.

How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the casserole cool completely before sealing to maintain its delicious flavors. If you’re like me and love to enjoy the comfort of this dish later in the week, this is the perfect way to keep it fresh!

Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring it’s well-sealed. Then, cover it in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. The casserole can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until it’s heated through.

What should I do if my casserole is too watery?
If you find your casserole is watery, it could be due to not draining the beef well or using excess marinara sauce. Always make sure to drain cooked ground beef thoroughly before layering it in the dish. If you’re using homemade marinara, consider simmering it to reduce the liquid before combining it with the ravioli.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes, this dish can be modified for various dietary needs! You can substitute ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative to create a lighter option. Additionally, if you have a dairy intolerance, using dairy-free cheeses can replace the ricotta and mozzarella without sacrificing texture. Just make sure to choose a marinara sauce that’s also dairy-free to keep the entire dish compliant with your dietary preferences.

How long does the casserole need to rest before serving?
Let the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This resting time is crucial as it allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Trust me, those extra minutes will significantly improve your slicing experience and overall enjoyment of this hearty, comforting dish!