Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole – A Delicious, Cheesy Comfort Food Delight
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a decadent, cheesy, and comforting dish that takes classic ravioli to the next level. With layers of ground beef, marinara sauce, and a creamy cheese mixture, this casserole is the perfect combination of rich flavors and gooey, melty cheese. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for any gathering!
Why You’ll Love Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole:
This casserole combines the best elements of Italian comfort food: tender cheese ravioli, a savory beef sauce, and a creamy, cheesy filling that’s baked to perfection. It’s easy to make, super filling, and the perfect way to enjoy ravioli in a new way.
- Rich & Creamy: With ricotta, sour cream, and cream cheese, the casserole is perfectly creamy and indulgent.
- Cheesy Goodness: Shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses create a deliciously cheesy topping.
- One-Pan Wonder: This casserole is simple to prepare and requires just one baking dish.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser, loved by both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole:
- 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
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Beef Mixture (Time: 10 minutes)
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. - Add the Onion and Garlic (Time: 3 minutes)
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened and fragrant. - Prepare the Sauce (Time: 5 minutes)
Stir in the marinara sauce and crushed tomatoes with the beef mixture. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and set aside. - Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture (Time: 3 minutes)
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, and softened cream cheese. Mix until smooth and well combined. - Assemble the Casserole (Time: 5 minutes)
Spread a small amount of the beef sauce mixture in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create a light base layer. Add a layer of frozen ravioli on top, followed by half of the creamy cheese mixture. Repeat with another layer of beef sauce, ravioli, and the remaining creamy cheese mixture. - Top with Cheese (Time: 2 minutes)
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. - Bake (Time: 25-30 minutes)
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. - Cool and Serve (Time: 5 minutes)
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to cut into portions.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Calories: Approximately 450-500 per serving (varies depending on portion size)
Tips for the Best Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole:
- Use Frozen Ravioli: Frozen cheese ravioli is convenient and retains its shape well while baking. However, you can also use fresh ravioli if preferred. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
- Customize the Meat: Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor.
- Add Veggies: If you’d like to sneak in some veggies, add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the beef sauce.
- Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes wonderfully! To freeze, assemble the casserole (but don’t bake), cover tightly, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw and bake as directed.
FAQ About Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole:
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Q: Can I use a different type of ravioli?
A: Absolutely! You can use any type of ravioli—meat, spinach, or mushroom ravioli are all great options for this casserole.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some hot sauce on top before serving to give it a spicy kick.
Final Thoughts:
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines comfort, flavor, and cheesy indulgence. The creamy, cheesy layers paired with savory beef and tender ravioli create a meal that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this casserole is sure to become a regular favorite!
If you loved this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, be sure to share it with your friends and family. Enjoy!
