Indulge in the heartwarming goodness of Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole! This delicious dish layers ground beef, marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta with frozen cheese ravioli, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its cheesy, savory flavors and easy preparation, this casserole is sure to become a favorite!
Why We Love This Recipe
- Hearty Comfort Food: Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole combines the best elements of comfort food into one dish. The rich flavors of marinara, savory ground beef, and cheesy ravioli create a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a cozy hug on a plate.
- Quick and Convenient: This recipe is a breeze to prepare, especially with frozen ravioli. It saves time and effort without sacrificing flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests arrive.
- Family-Friendly: The combination of pasta, cheese, and meat is a hit with both kids and adults. It’s a great way to please even the pickiest eaters at the dinner table.
- Flavorful Layers: Each layer of this casserole brings a unique taste, from the seasoned ground beef to the creamy ricotta and tangy marinara sauce, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Great for Meal Prep: This casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare it in advance, refrigerate it, and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
- Customizable: You can easily modify this recipe to suit your family’s tastes. Add in veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or switch up the cheeses for a unique twist.
- Impressive Presentation: With its golden top and bubbling sauce, this casserole looks fantastic when served, making it a great dish for gatherings and potlucks.
Overall, Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a delicious and versatile recipe that brings joy and satisfaction to any meal, making it a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire!
Ingredients
To make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef: The main protein for the casserole.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds flavor and sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce: Provides the rich tomato base.
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes: Adds texture and depth to the sauce.
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli: The heart of the casserole, providing delicious pasta.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and richness.
How to Make this Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Add Sauces
- Mix in Sauces: Stir in the marinara sauce and crushed tomatoes with the cooked beef. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the beef and sauce mixture on the bottom. Then, layer half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce.
- Add Ricotta: Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese over the ravioli, followed by another layer of the beef and sauce mixture. Top with the remaining ravioli.
- Finish with Sauce: Pour any remaining sauce over the top layer of ravioli, ensuring it is well coated.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
Step 6: Serve
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this delicious and comforting dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired!
Success Tips
- Use Frozen Ravioli: Using frozen ravioli eliminates the need for pre-cooking, making this dish quick and convenient.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to add Italian herbs like oregano or basil to enhance the flavor of the sauce.
- Cheese Variations: You can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Parmesan for added flavor and creaminess.
Storage
To keep your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Notes
- Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a meat substitute for a delicious vegetarian version.
Nutrition
Each serving (based on 6 servings) contains approximately:
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 20g
(Nutrition values may vary based on specific ingredient choices and portion sizes.)
FAQs
Can I Use Fresh Ravioli Instead of Frozen?
Yes! If using fresh ravioli, adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh ravioli cooks faster than frozen.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
How Do I Know When It’s Done?
The casserole is done when it is bubbly and the ravioli are tender. You can check by inserting a knife to ensure it’s heated through.
What Can I Use Instead of Ricotta Cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option or cream cheese for a richer texture.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a delightful and satisfying dish that brings together rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and comforting textures in a way that appeals to everyone at the table. Its easy preparation makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights, while its impressive presentation ensures that it shines at family gatherings and special occasions.
With layers of savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and tender ravioli enveloped in a flavorful marinara sauce, this casserole delivers a burst of deliciousness in every bite. Plus, its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses, making it a dish that can evolve with your tastes.
Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or preparing a meal for guests, Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. So gather your ingredients, get ready to savor each delicious layer, and enjoy this comforting casserole that truly feels like home! ✨