Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a cheesy, comforting, and crowd-pleasing dish that combines ravioli with a creamy, flavorful sauce and loads of melted cheese. It’s a perfect family dinner, and easy enough to prepare for a weeknight or a gathering. Here’s how you can make this delicious casserole:
Ingredients:
- For the Casserole:
- 1 (25 oz) package frozen cheese ravioli (you can use fresh as well)
- 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Cook the Ravioli:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ravioli according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
-
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef (or Italian sausage) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned (about 7-10 minutes).
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, and cook for 2-3 more minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
-
Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
-
Assemble the Casserole:
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
- Layer half of the cooked ravioli over the sauce.
- Spread half of the creamy cheese mixture over the ravioli, followed by another layer of meat sauce.
- Repeat with the remaining ravioli, creamy cheese mixture, and meat sauce.
- Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
-
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.
-
Serve:
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a rich, cheesy, and hearty dish that combines all the best elements of lasagna and ravioli in one easy-to-make casserole. It’s the ultimate comfort food that will leave everyone asking for seconds!