If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that marries the comfort of Italian cuisine with the convenience of a casserole, the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is the perfect choice. This indulgent recipe combines layers of cheese-filled ravioli with savory meat sauce and gooey melted cheese. This dish is not only rich and flavorful but also surprisingly easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The blend of flavors and textures in this casserole is sure to impress your family and guests alike.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 package (25 ounces) frozen cheese-filled ravioli
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and cooked through.
3. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and marinara sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Cooking Process
4. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Arrange a single layer of ravioli over the sauce.
6. Top the ravioli with half of the remaining meat sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Repeat the layers, ending with a generous sprinkle of cheese on top.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Let it rest for a few minutes, garnish with chopped parsley, then serve.
Serving & Storage
Serving Suggestions
The Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad. The richness of the dish pairs perfectly with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea. For a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven until heated through. You can also freeze the casserole (unbaked) for up to 3 months. Simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking according to the original instructions.
Variations
For a vegetarian twist, swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms and spinach. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or use hot Italian sausage instead. Experiment with different types of cheese like fontina or ricotta for a unique flavor profile. The versatility of this recipe allows you to get creative and tailor it to your taste preferences.
FAQ
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh ravioli in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as fresh pasta cooks faster than frozen. Keep an eye on the casserole in the oven to prevent the pasta from becoming too soft.
Is it possible to prep the casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole up to a day in advance. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy days or when hosting a dinner party.
Can I add vegetables to the meat sauce?
Adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meat sauce is a great way to introduce more flavors and nutrients. Simply sauté the vegetables along with the onions and garlic until they’re tender before combining them with the ground beef.
What is the best way to achieve a crispy cheese topping?
To get a perfectly crispy cheese topping, broil the casserole for the last couple of minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, and rotate the dish for even browning. The broiling process will give the cheese a delightful golden crust that adds texture to the dish.
Conclusion
Indulge in the decadent flavors of the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for your next family dinner or gathering. With its layers of cheesy ravioli, savory meat sauce, and melty cheese, this dish is a winner in both taste and convenience. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. Try it out, and get ready for a million-dollar meal experience!
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Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Description
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe everyone will love!
Ingredients
1 package of frozen cheese ravioli
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ravioli according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Arrange half of the cooked ravioli over the sauce in the dish.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the ravioli.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli and cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.
Notes
This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Feel free to customize the casserole by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of ravioli.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for a quick and tasty meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6