Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I was flipping through my recipe collection, I stumbled upon a gem that whisked me back to cozy family dinners—the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. This dish combines rich layers of cheese ravioli nestled in a savory meat sauce, topped with creamy ricotta and bubbly mozzarella, making it the ultimate comfort food. It’s not just a meal; it’s a crowd-pleaser that can transform any ordinary weeknight into something special. With quick prep and effortless assembly, this casserole is perfect for busy evenings or potlucks. Who wouldn’t love diving into a bubbling dish that combines delicious flavors and heartwarming nostalgia? Ready to turn your kitchen into a haven of Italian-inspired goodness? Let’s get cooking! Why is this casserole a must-try? Comforting Layers: The Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a warm embrace on a plate, combining cheesy ravioli with a rich, savory meat sauce. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and simple layering, you can whip this dish up effortlessly, making it perfect for busy nights or impromptu gatherings. Crowd-Pleasing: This delightful casserole is sure to impress family and friends, making it an excellent choice for potlucks or special occasions. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite proteins or vegetables, just like in our Cheesy Rice Casserole for a personal touch! Memorable Goodness: Each bite is reminiscent of hearty Italian meals, bringing warmth and nostalgia that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into a dish that’s not just food, but a memory! Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Ingredients For the Casserole Cheese Ravioli – This forms the hearty base of the casserole—store-bought for convenience or homemade for love. Ground Beef – Adds rich, savory depth and protein; substitute turkey or a meat alternative for a lighter take. Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth; fresh minced garlic is ideal, but garlic powder works too. Marinara Sauce – The flavorful sauce component; any jarred kind is good, or make your own for a fresher taste. For the Cheese Layer Ricotta Cheese – Provides creaminess with a mild flavor; use cottage cheese or vegan ricotta for dairy-free needs. Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully into gooey perfection; swap for provolone or non-dairy cheese if lactose intolerant. For Seasoning Italian Seasoning – A delicious herb blend to elevate flavors; a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme works as a substitute. Each ingredient in this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole plays a vital role in creating that perfect harmony of flavors and textures you crave in comfort food. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This key step ensures that your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole bakes evenly and reaches that delightful bubbling texture. While the oven warms up, you can gather your ingredients and prepare for the delicious assembly ahead. Step 2: Brown the Meat In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant, infusing the meat with rich flavors. Step 3: Layer the Casserole Grab a baking dish and spread a generous layer of marinara sauce on the bottom, about a cup should do. Next, add half of the cheese ravioli in a single layer on top of the sauce. Spoon half of the ricotta cheese over the ravioli, followed by half of the meat mixture and a sprinkle of mozzarella. This delightful layering showcases the comforting flavors of the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. Step 4: Finish Layering Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients: add another layer of marinara sauce, the rest of the cheese ravioli, followed by the remaining ricotta, meat mixture, and top it off with the rest of the mozzarella. This builds up that decadent, cheesy goodness that everyone loves in a casserole, promising a hearty meal ahead. Step 5: Bake the Casserole Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil to trap the steam inside, then place it in the preheated oven. Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes until heated through and the cheese begins to melt. When you remove the foil for the final 10 minutes, be ready to smell the irresistible aroma as the cheese begins to turn golden brown. Step 6: Cool and Serve Once baked, take the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole out of the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice. Once slightly cooled, serve warm and watch as everyone dives into this comforting, cheesy masterpiece that’s sure to bring smiles around the table. What to Serve with Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole? Pair your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole with delightful sides that enhance this comforting dish, making your meal wholesome and heartwarming. Garlic Bread: Soft and buttery, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce, adding a crunchy texture with each bite. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and a sprinkle of parmesan bring freshness and a tangy contrast to the cheesy casserole. Steamed Broccoli: Tender and vibrant, steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition, balancing the richness of the casserole beautifully. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots adds a savory sweetness, elevating the meal’s flavor profile. Complete your dining experience with something sweet. Tiramisu: This classic Italian dessert layers coffee-soaked ladyfingers with rich mascarpone cream, providing a delightful finish to your meal. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing, citrusy sorbet offers a light, zesty contrast to the comforting casserole, cleansing the palate after a hearty meal. Make Ahead Options These Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole preparations ensure that busy home cooks can enjoy a delicious meal with minimal last-minute effort! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance by preparing it all the way through the layering process, then cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it into the preheated oven and extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s heated through. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven to retain that lovely, gooey texture! Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Variations Feel free to infuse your own personality into this dish with these delightful twists that will elevate the classic Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole! Italian Sausage: Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to add an extra kick of flavor. The spiciness sings when paired with the creamy cheeses! Veggie Delight: Incorporate sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and a pop of color. These veggies add both texture and a fresh taste that balances the rich flavors. Low-Carb Twist: Use cauliflower or zucchini ravioli to create a lighter, lower-carb version without sacrificing the delicious comfort of the dish. It’s a smart swap that complements your healthy lifestyle! Herb Infusion: Boost the flavor with fresh herbs like basil or parsley sprinkled between the layers for a fragrant and vibrant touch. Freshness brings a new depth to the entire casserole. Cheese Lovers: Feel free to mix in a variety of cheeses like gouda or fontina for an ooey-gooey layer that takes this casserole to new cheesy heights! Who can resist an extra cheesy bite? Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños in the meat mixture to raise the heat level. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of fire in their comfort food! Creamy Spin: Combine cottage cheese with ricotta for a creamier layer. This swap not only enhances texture but also adds a subtle tang that beautifully complements the rich sauce. Sauce Swap: Change up the marinara by using a roasted red pepper sauce or even a creamy Alfredo for an adventurous twist that surprises the palate with each bite. With these variations, you can transform the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole into a dish that perfectly suits your taste! And for more cheesy delights, don’t miss out on our Jalapeno Popper Casserole or the comforting Croissant Breakfast Casserole for inspiration! How to Store and Freeze Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Fridge: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its cheesy goodness. Freezer: To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, it can be kept for up to 3 months. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through, or microwave in individual portions for quick servings. Expert Tips for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality marinara elevate flavor. Avoid canned or processed options for the best results. Avoid Sogginess: Drain your cooked ground beef well before layering to prevent a soggy casserole. Moisture control is key in this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. Layering Matters: Ensure even distribution of ingredients when layering. Uneven layers can affect cooking and texture, leading to an inconsistent bite. Rest Before Serving: Letting the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after baking allows it to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve. For a Golden Top: Broil the casserole for an additional few minutes after baking to achieve a crispy, golden cheese topping, but keep a close watch to prevent burning. Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe FAQs What type of cheese ravioli should I use? Absolutely! You can use store-bought cheese ravioli for convenience or make your own for a personal touch. Just ensure it’s fresh, as this will contribute to the overall flavor and texture of your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. How should I store leftovers? Very simply! Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, it’s best to let it cool before sealing to maintain that creamy goodness. Can I freeze the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole? Definitely! To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. What if I have dietary restrictions? No problem! You can easily substitute ingredients to accommodate dietary needs. For example, use ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute instead of beef, and opt for a vegan ricotta or a non-dairy cheese. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness of the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole! What should I do if my casserole turns out too soggy? If you find that your casserole is soggy, the most likely culprit is excess moisture from the meat or sauce. Next time, make sure to drain the ground beef thoroughly after cooking. Additionally, consider using less marinara sauce or choose a thicker variety to help absorb excess liquid. Don’t worry—you’ll get it just right on your next attempt! How do I achieve a crispy top on the casserole? For that irresistible golden, crispy top, you can broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after the baking phase. Just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. The added texture will elevate your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, making it even more delightful! Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole: Comforting Cheesy Bliss Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a delightful dish combining layers of cheese ravioli and rich meat sauce, topped with creamy ricotta and mozzarella. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: CasserolesCuisine: ItalianCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Casserole1 package cheese ravioli store-bought or homemade1 pound ground beef can substitute turkey or meat alternative3 cloves garlic minced24 ounces marinara sauce jarred or homemadeFor the Cheese Layer15 ounces ricotta cheese can substitute with cottage cheese or vegan ricotta2 cups mozzarella cheese can swap for provolone or non-dairy cheeseFor Seasoning1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or mixed dried herbs Equipment Large skilletBaking DishAluminum foilOven Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, then add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, add half of the cheese ravioli, half of the ricotta, half of the meat mixture, and a sprinkle of mozzarella.Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, then remove foil for the last 10 minutes.Let cool for 5-10 minutes, then serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg NotesMake sure to drain cooked ground beef to prevent sogginess. Let casserole sit before serving for easier slicing. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
