Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole: A Weeknight Wonder

I remember the first time I made this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. It was a weeknight, and I was staring into the fridge, utterly uninspired. Sound familiar? I had a package of ravioli, some leftover ground beef, and a half-eaten container of ricotta cheese. That’s when inspiration struck, and the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole was born! The aroma that filled my kitchen that night was pure comfort – savory meat, creamy cheese, and that hint of garlic that just makes everything better. My family devoured it, and it quickly became a regular on our dinner rotation.

Now, I’m not saying this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole will actually make you a millionaire (though wouldn’t that be nice?). But I am saying it tastes like a million bucks, without the million-dollar effort. I had my fair share of cooking fails trying to get this creamy ravioli casserole just right. One time, I forgot to thaw the ravioli completely, and it took forever to bake! Another time, I used a watery ricotta cheese, and the whole thing turned out soupy. But hey, we live and learn, right? That’s why I’m sharing all my tips and tricks with you, so you can avoid those pitfalls and create the perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole every time.

This cheesy ravioli bake is truly a lifesaver on busy weeknights. I can throw it together in minutes, pop it in the oven, and have a delicious, satisfying meal on the table in about an hour. And the best part? Everyone loves it, even my picky eaters! I really want to encourage you to try it because this simple dish really will become a family favorite like it did in my house. Trust me, once you try this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients for Success

When it comes to the ingredients for this cheesy ravioli bake, quality and careful selection can really make a difference. The type of marinara sauce you choose, for example, can significantly impact the overall flavor profile. Opting for a sauce with a rich, robust taste will enhance the entire dish. Similarly, the freshness of your ricotta cheese will lend a creamier texture to the casserole. Don’t underestimate the power of freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella; they melt more evenly and provide a superior taste compared to pre-shredded options.

• 1 (25 ounce) package frozen ravioli (cheese or meat-filled)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

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For my Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, I always use a good quality marinara sauce. It really makes a difference in the overall flavor of the dish. I’ve found some great ones at my local Italian deli, but any brand you like will work. You can usually find frozen ravioli in the freezer section of your grocery store. I prefer cheese-filled ravioli, but meat-filled works just as well. When making this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, you can often find the best deals on ground beef by buying in bulk and freezing it in smaller portions.

Here’s a Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole trick I learned from my mom: add a pinch of sugar to the marinara sauce to cut down on the acidity. It really brightens up the flavor! If you’re short on time, you can use pre-shredded mozzarella cheese, but I find that freshly grated mozzarella melts more evenly.

One little time saving tip that I like to do when making this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is to buy pre-cooked ground beef. The container of ricotta cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week after opening. The Parmesan cheese lasts a really long time in the fridge, too! These cost saving measures will help you create this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole without breaking the bank.

How to Make – Step-by-Step

Making the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is surprisingly straightforward, but there are a few key steps to ensure the best possible outcome. For instance, browning the ground beef properly and draining off any excess grease is crucial to prevent a greasy casserole. Simmering the marinara sauce with the garlic powder, salt, and pepper allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a richer, more complex sauce. Layering the ingredients carefully—starting with a thin layer of meat sauce to prevent sticking—ensures that each bite is perfectly balanced and delicious.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to use a glass baking dish because it heats evenly, but any baking dish will work.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody likes a greasy Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole!
3. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. I learned the hard way with Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole that if you don’t simmer the sauce long enough, it can be a bit watery.
4. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well. Don’t worry if your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole mixture looks a little lumpy; it will all melt together in the oven.
5. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will prevent the ravioli from sticking. This helps keep the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole from becoming burnt.
6. Arrange half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the meat sauce. You don’t need to thaw the ravioli first; they will cook in the oven. If the ravioli are sticking together, just give them a gentle tap to separate them. Try not to overlap the ravioli or the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole will cook unevenly.
7. Spread the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the ravioli. Then, spoon the remaining meat sauce over the ricotta cheese. I like to make sure every ravioli is covered in sauce for maximum flavor. It makes the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole extra good.
8. Top with the remaining ravioli and sprinkle with the mozzarella cheese. Don’t be shy with the cheese! The cheesier, the better, if you ask me.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is heated through. In my kitchen, this cheesy ravioli bake usually takes about 45 minutes total, but oven times can vary.
10. Let the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set up a bit and make it easier to slice. Your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole should smell like a warm, comforting blend of tomato sauce, garlic, and cheese. While the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is cooking, I usually take the time to set the table and make a simple salad. It also gives me some time to prep whatever I need to clean up so my kitchen doesn’t stay messy all night!

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Serving Suggestions

Serving the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole can be as creative or as simple as you like. A classic pairing is garlic bread and a fresh green salad, which offers a delightful contrast to the richness of the casserole. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add an extra layer of flavor. Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus also make excellent side dishes, providing a healthy and colorful addition to the meal. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness that elevates the presentation.

Make it a Meal

• Serve with garlic bread and a simple green salad.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Pair with steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

The kids love our Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole when I serve it with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad. The garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce! I also sometimes like to add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little bit of heat.

This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any weeknight meal. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, and it’s so easy to transport. My go-to side dishes that pair with this creamy ravioli casserole are steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus. The green veggies provide a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole. When serving this baked ravioli casserole, I like to garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

If you have extra Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, it’s just as good the next day! I usually reheat it in the microwave or oven. You can even freeze it for later. My friends always ask for this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole recipe whenever I make it for a party. It’s always the first dish to disappear! During the summer, I like to add some grilled vegetables to the casserole, like zucchini and bell peppers. In the winter, I sometimes add a can of diced tomatoes to the meat sauce for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, along with their answers.

• Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen? Absolutely! Fresh ravioli will work just as well in this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as fresh ravioli may cook a bit faster than frozen.
• Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can! Assemble the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole according to the instructions, but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
• Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze baked ravioli casserole! Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. You know what I do when my Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is frozen? I take it out in the morning and let it sit in the fridge all day until I am ready to cook!
• Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef? Of course! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. It will still taste delicious and be a bit leaner.
• What if I don’t have ricotta cheese? If you don’t have ricotta cheese, you can substitute cottage cheese or even cream cheese in this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. Just make sure to drain the cottage cheese well before using it. My family actually loves it with the cream cheese as it adds a distinct flavor to the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole.
• Can I add vegetables to this casserole? Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like to this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. Some good options include spinach, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. I’ve even added zucchini to the cheesy ravioli bake before. You know, one feedback from my blog readers mentioned that adding diced tomatoes to the marinara sauce gives the recipe a much fresher taste!
• My casserole is too watery. What did I do wrong? A watery casserole can be caused by a few things. Make sure you drain the ground beef well after browning it. Also, use a good quality ricotta cheese that isn’t too watery. Finally, make sure you simmer the meat sauce for long enough to allow it to thicken. I’ve made this mistake with the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole when I didn’t simmer the sauce long enough!

Concluding Thoughts

This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s a dish that my family always requests. It’s comforting, delicious, and so easy to make. It is truly the best Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole there is! Don’t overcook the ravioli and use a good quality cheese. It really makes a difference in the flavor of the casserole.Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving as this will allow the cheese to set up and make it easier to slice.

Some Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole variations I’ve tried with my family include adding Italian sausage to the meat sauce, using different types of cheese (like provolone or Gruyere), and adding a layer of sauteed vegetables. My husband loves it when I add a little bit of red pepper flakes for some heat. The kids prefer it with just cheese and no extra spices.

Here are some more recipe ideas:Here is my easy lasagna recipe: easy lasagna Also, check out my baked spaghetti recipe: baked spaghetti

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I hope you enjoy this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole as much as my family does. I encourage you to make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients and adjusting the recipe to your liking. This U.S. Food and Drug Administration – Food Safety website is a great source for best practices when handling food safely: https://www.fda.gov/food/food-safety. Also, check out this guide to the USDA – Dietary Guidelines for Americans to help in meal planning: https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/ I hope that you will have an easy time cooking it and that it comes out as good as it does in my kitchen.

Give the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole a try! I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! I have all the confidence in the world that you will be able to easily make it and your family will absolutely love it. I’m sure it will soon become a family favorite of yours just like it did in my house!

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole: A Weeknight Wonder

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This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is an easy dinner recipe that tastes like a million bucks! Layers of cheesy ravioli, meat sauce, and a creamy white sauce make this casserole irresistible.

• Author: Zoubida
• Prep Time: 20
• Cook Time: 35
• Total Time: 55
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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• 1 (25 ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 (19 ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli
• 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 6 tablespoons flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in nutmeg.
5. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with half of the ravioli. Spread ricotta cheese mixture over ravioli. Top with remaining ravioli. Pour meat sauce over ravioli. Pour white sauce over meat sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce. You can also use Italian sausage instead of ground beef. Feel free to use your favorite jarred marinara sauce.