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:
- 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.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
- In a small bowl, mix ricotta cheese with half of the Parmesan cheese.
- 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.
- 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?