Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

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 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)

Construction:

  1. Prepare the Meat Sauce
    • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
    • Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
    • Brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
    • Stir in marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
    • In a small bowl, mix ricotta cheese with half of the Parmesan cheese.
  3. Assemble the Casserole
    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • In a greased baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce.
    • Add a layer of frozen ravioli.
    • Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli.
    • Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with sauce.
    • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and remaining Parmesan on top.
  4. Bake & Serve
    • Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
    • Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
    • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot!

Variations:

  • Meat Swap: Use Italian sausage or ground turkey instead of beef.
  • Extra Creamy: Add a layer of Alfredo sauce between the ravioli.
  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  • Veggie Boost: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
  • Different Ravioli: Try meat-filled, spinach, or mushroom ravioli for variety.

Tips:

Use Fresh Ravioli: If using fresh ravioli, reduce baking time by 10 minutes.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate before baking.
Freeze for Later: Freeze unbaked, then bake straight from frozen, adding 15 extra minutes.
Serve With: Garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.

Would you make this as is, or customize it your way?

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