This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a crowd-pleaser! It combines cheesy ravioli with a rich tomato sauce and lots of melted cheese on top, creating layers of comfort in each bite.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a good casserole? It’s so easy to make! I just throw everything together, pop it in the oven, and let it bake while I relax. Dinner has never been simpler!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Cheese Ravioli: This is the star of the dish, easy and convenient. If fresh ravioli is available, it will taste even better. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pasta varieties.
Ground Beef: I often use ground turkey for a lighter option, or you can try ground chicken. For a vegetarian twist, use lentils or mushrooms in place of meat. Just sauté them well to enhance the flavor!
Onion and Garlic: Yellow onions are great for sweetness, but you can substitute with shallots or even green onions if you prefer a milder taste. If you’re not a fan of garlic, skip it or use garlic powder instead.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought sauce like Ragu is super convenient. If you want a homemade touch, simmer crushed tomatoes with herbs for a fresh sauce. You can also use pesto for a different flavor profile.
Cheese: Ricotta gives creaminess, but cottage cheese can be a lighter option. For the mozzarella and Parmesan, feel free to swap with any cheese you enjoy, like cheddar or feta.
How Do You Ensure the Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the ground beef just right is key to flavorful meat sauce. Start by breaking it into smaller pieces while cooking for even browning. Make sure to drain any excess fat afterward to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Heat your skillet to medium before adding the meat. This helps it cook evenly.
- Cook until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes, stirring often.
- Add the onions right after the beef is started; they’ll soften and sweeten while the beef cooks.
How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (25 oz) package frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (Ragu or similar) marinara sauce (about 24 oz)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 50 minutes to bake. You’ll spend some time cooking the beef and layering the ingredients, and then just let your oven work its magic! Total time is approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This makes sure your casserole bakes perfectly when you’re ready!
2. Cook the Beef and Onions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook them together, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened—this should take about 5-7 minutes. After that, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell that yummy garlic aroma. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat from the pan!
3. Mix in the Marinara Sauce:
Pour the marinara sauce and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning into the cooked meat mixture. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
4. Start Layering the Casserole:
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. This helps prevent sticking and allows for a nice base for your layers.
5. Add the First Layers:
Now it’s time to layer! Place half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce. Then, dollop half of the ricotta cheese on top, followed by a layer of mozzarella cheese, and then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Yum!
6. Complete the Layering:
Repeat the layering process. Start with the remaining meat sauce, then the second half of the ravioli, the rest of the ricotta, and finish it off with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. This will create a delightful cheese crust!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to keep it moist and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Perfect!
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once your casserole is done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to serve. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top before serving.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Now you’re ready to dig in! Serve warm and enjoy every bite of your delicious Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole!
Can I Use Fresh Ravioli Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh ravioli! Just slightly reduce the baking time since fresh ravioli cooks faster. Bake covered for about 20 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, keeping an eye on the cheese to make sure it doesn’t over-brown.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’d like a different protein, ground turkey or chicken are excellent substitutes and will still keep the dish flavorful. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using a mix of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a meat substitute designed for cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions by wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe container. They should be good for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini between the layers for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to cook them first to release excess moisture, which will help keep the casserole from getting soggy.
