Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of cheesy ravioli with a savory tomato sauce, all baked to perfection. This easy-to-make casserole is a family favorite that brings the taste of a restaurant-style dish into your home. With layers of gooey cheese, savory meat, and tender ravioli, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or a satisfying weekend meal.

The simplicity of this dish makes it ideal for even novice cooks, while the bold flavors and creamy texture ensure that it will be loved by everyone. This guide will walk you through the process, providing tips for making the perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole every time, and offering fun variations to try.

Why You’ll Love Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

• Rich, Cheesy Flavor: Packed with layers of mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan cheeses, this casserole delivers a creamy and cheesy experience with every bite.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: With its warm, gooey cheese, savory tomato sauce, and tender ravioli, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food.
• Quick and Easy: Using store-bought ravioli and simple pantry staples, this casserole comes together quickly, making it a perfect choice for busy nights.
• Kid-Friendly: With the mild flavors and cheesy goodness, kids will love this dish, and parents will love how easy it is to make.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting a party, or looking for a dish to bring to a gathering, Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is sure to impress.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 18-22g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fiber: 2-4g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole:

• 1 (25-ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli (or your favorite variety)
• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (or homemade sauce)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 7-8 minutes. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat if necessary.

Add the marinara sauce to the skillet with the beef. Stir in the garlic powder, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once the sauce is heated through, remove from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the Ravioli

While the meat sauce simmers, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the frozen ravioli and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 4-6 minutes. Once cooked, drain the ravioli and set aside. Be sure not to overcook the ravioli, as it will cook further while baking in the casserole.

3. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or lightly butter the dish to prevent sticking.

Start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Next, layer half of the cooked ravioli over the sauce. Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the ravioli, followed by half of the ricotta cheese. Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the ravioli and sauce. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the parmesan cheese over the ricotta.

Repeat this layering process with the remaining ravioli, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and shredded mozzarella and parmesan.

4. Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

5. Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help it set and make it easier to cut into neat pieces. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Tips for Perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

• Use High-Quality Sauce: The marinara sauce is a key component of this dish, so opt for a high-quality jarred sauce or even homemade if you have the time. A good sauce will elevate the overall flavor of the casserole.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Ravioli: Layer the ravioli evenly so that each one is coated in sauce and cheese. Overcrowding the casserole can make it too dense, so be sure to layer it carefully.
• Try Different Meats: If you prefer a lighter version, ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian substitute can be used in place of beef. The casserole will still be delicious, but the flavor profile will change slightly.
• Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor: For added nutrition and flavor, you can add vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the meat sauce. Simply sauté them with the meat before adding the marinara sauce.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and bake as instructed.

Variations of Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

• Vegetarian Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole: Skip the meat and use a vegetable-based marinara sauce with ricotta, spinach, and mushrooms. You can also add a variety of your favorite vegetables, like zucchini or eggplant, for extra flavor. This variation is not only delicious but also a great option for those following a vegetarian diet, providing a hearty and satisfying meal without compromising on taste or texture.
• Chicken Alfredo Ravioli Casserole: For a creamy twist, substitute the marinara sauce with a homemade or store-bought Alfredo sauce. Use chicken instead of ground beef, and layer the casserole with chicken-filled ravioli for a comforting dish. The richness of the Alfredo sauce complements the tender ravioli perfectly, making this casserole a great choice for a cozy dinner or family gathering.
• Spicy Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce to your meat sauce to give the casserole an extra kick. This is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals. The spicy kick enhances the flavor profile, making each bite an exciting burst of heat and savory goodness, ideal for those who enjoy bold flavors.
• Pesto Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole: Add pesto sauce to the casserole for a fresh, herby flavor. Use basil pesto and layer it with the ricotta and mozzarella for a unique twist on the classic. The bright, aromatic pesto adds a burst of freshness and a vibrant color to the dish, creating a more sophisticated version of the traditional ravioli casserole.
• Four-Cheese Ravioli Casserole: If you love cheese, try a four-cheese ravioli instead of the traditional cheese-filled variety. This will add extra richness and flavor to your casserole. The combination of mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and provolone cheeses creates a melty, indulgent casserole that’s perfect for cheese lovers, delivering a creamy and flavorful experience in every bite.

Storage and Shelf Life

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place the casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.

For longer storage, this casserole can be frozen. To freeze, let it cool completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in a freezer-safe container. Frozen casserole can last up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Pair this casserole with complementary sides for a well-rounded meal:

• Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery loaf of garlic bread is the perfect side to soak up the delicious sauce and cheese.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. Top with croutons and a sprinkle of parmesan for extra flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve the casserole with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, for a healthy and flavorful addition to the meal.
• Fresh Baked Bread: A simple, crusty bread is ideal for dipping into the tomato sauce and cheese of the casserole.

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Conclusion

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, offering cheesy, savory goodness in every bite. With layers of ravioli, hearty meat sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests at a gathering, this casserole is perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this million-dollar meal—it will quickly become a go-to in your recipe collection!