Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Short Description

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a hearty, indulgent baked dish layered with tender ravioli, savory beef, creamy cheese mixtures, and rich marinara sauce. Combining classic Italian flavors with comforting casserole ease, this dish truly tastes like a million bucks—perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is effortless to prepare and incredibly satisfying. The layers of ravioli, seasoned meat, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy cheese make every bite rich and flavorful. It’s freezer-friendly, kid-approved, and versatile enough to serve a crowd or reheat as leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ground beef

• small onion, chopped

• garlic cloves, minced

• marinara or pasta sauce

• frozen ravioli (cheese or meat)

• cream cheese, softened

• sour cream

• shredded mozzarella cheese

• grated Parmesan cheese

• olive oil

• salt and pepper to taste

• fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Meat Sauce:

• Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

• Add 1 lb ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

• Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 4–5 minutes.

• Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Pour in the marinara sauce and let simmer for 5–10 minutes. Remove from heat.

3. Make the Cheese Layer:

• In a medium bowl, combine 1 block softened cream cheese, 1 cup sour cream, and ½ cup of the shredded mozzarella. Mix until smooth.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

• Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.

• Add half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer (no need to thaw).

• Spoon and spread half of the cheese mixture over the ravioli.

• Add another layer of meat sauce.

• Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli, cheese mixture, and meat sauce.

• Top with remaining 1 cup shredded mozzarella and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake:

• Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

• Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.

• Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves approximately 6–8 people.

• Total Time: About 1 hour, including prep and baking time.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and use sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead.

• Different Cheese: Add ricotta or provolone for additional depth.

• Homemade Sauce: Use a homemade marinara for a fresher flavor.

• Layer with Fresh Spinach: Add spinach between the ravioli layers for extra nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Assemble and freeze unbaked for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use refrigerated ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, refrigerated ravioli works just as well. Reduce the baking time slightly.

Should I thaw the frozen ravioli first?

No, you can layer it straight from the freezer—no need to thaw.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble it a day in advance and keep it in the fridge until ready to bake.

Can I substitute the cream cheese?

Ricotta cheese can be used in place of cream cheese for a more traditional flavor.

What kind of ravioli works best?

Both cheese and meat ravioli are great choices. Use your favorite variety.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground turkey, low-fat cheeses, and add a layer of vegetables like zucchini or spinach.

Will the ravioli be fully cooked?

Yes, the ravioli cooks completely during baking thanks to the sauce and steam.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger or two separate baking dishes.

How do I prevent the cheese from browning too much?

Cover the dish with foil during the first part of baking, and only uncover it near the end.

What sides go well with this casserole?

Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole brings together convenience and rich flavor in one irresistible dish. With layers of creamy cheese, hearty sauce, and tender pasta, it’s an easy yet luxurious meal that lives up to its name. Ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions, this casserole is sure to be a repeat favorite.

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

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• Author: Olivia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a cheesy, hearty, and comforting baked pasta dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Featuring layers of ravioli, rich meat sauce, and a creamy cheese mixture, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Keyword: million dollar ravioli casserole

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce

• 1 package (25 oz) frozen ravioli (cheese or meat)

• 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

• Preheat Oven:
  Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

• Cook Meat Sauce:
  Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  Add chopped onion and cook until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  Stir in marinara sauce, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for 5 minutes.

• Make Cheese Layer:
  In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.

• Assemble the Casserole:
  Spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
  Add half of the frozen ravioli. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over ravioli.
  Repeat layers, ending with remaining meat sauce on top.
  Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

• Bake:
  Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

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Notes

• No need to thaw the ravioli—bake straight from frozen.

• Use Italian sausage or ground turkey as a variation.

• Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated before baking.