Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying, look no further than Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. This dish combines classic Italian flavors with easy preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re a busy parent or just someone who loves a hearty, home-cooked meal, you’ll find this casserole to be as versatile as it is tasty.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 21 grams
Carbohydrates: 32 grams
Fat: 18 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Sugar: 3 grams
Sodium: 750 mg
Why Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole offers a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes. With layers of savory ground beef, creamy cheeses, and tender cheese ravioli, this casserole is not just bursting with flavor; it’s also a great way to sneak in some protein. The use of frozen ravioli means you can whip this up in record time, making it a winner on busy evenings. Plus, the recipe is highly customizable; you can swap in different types of proteins or veggies to suit your family’s tastes.
How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Step by Step
Ingredients
- Frozen Cheese Ravioli: 1 bag (25 ounces), used straight from the freezer
- Ground Beef: 1 pound, cooked and drained
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened
- Sour Cream: ½ cup
- Ricotta Cheese: 1 cup
- Shredded Mozzarella: 2 cups
- Marinara Sauce: 2 cups
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Fresh Basil: for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Drain the fat and stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, and ricotta until smooth.
- Spread a layer of meat sauce, then half the ravioli. Add half the cheese mixture and mozzarella. Repeat layers and top with the remaining sauce and cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with basil.
- Serve hot with a salad or garlic bread.
How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole hot from the oven for a heartwarming family dinner. Pair it with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to add freshness to your meal. Alternatively, a side of garlic bread makes for a classic accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
How to Store Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Leftovers of Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for a few minutes or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing the casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking to reheat.
Expert Tips for Cooking Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
- For extra flavor, add chopped onions and bell peppers to your ground beef as it cooks.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses, like adding parmesan for a sharper taste.
- Use homemade marinara sauce for a fresh flavor boost.
- Increase the garlic powder for a more robust garlic flavor.
Delicious Variations of Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the meat sauce or use spicy sausage instead of ground beef.
- Incorporate fresh vegetables like spinach or zucchini layers for added nutrition.
- Try a vegetarian version by replacing meat with sautéed mushrooms and spinach, making it a family favorite without the meat.
This dish is sure to please everyone at the table, providing a simple yet indulgent meal that can easily be made your own. Try out Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for your next family dinner and savor all the delicious flavors it has to offer. Enjoy its creamy layers and hearty ingredients, and don’t be surprised when it becomes a regular on your dinner rotation!
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Drain the fat and stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, and ricotta until smooth.
- Spread a layer of meat sauce, then half the ravioli. Add half the cheese mixture and mozzarella.
- Repeat layers and top with the remaining sauce and cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with basil.
