If you are searching for a show-stopping, flavor-packed dish that’s both comforting and impressive, the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This casserole layers tender frozen cheese ravioli with a rich, savory meat sauce and a creamy blend of ricotta, sour cream, and mozzarella, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a breeze to make yet delivers the kind of indulgent Italian-inspired flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe hits all the right notes of cheesy, saucy, and hearty deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the joys of this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe is how simple and straightforward the ingredients are. Each item contributes uniquely—from the meaty richness and tangy tomato goodness in the sauce to the creamy and melty cheese layers that bring it all together. These essentials combine to create layers of flavor and texture that turn frozen ravioli into a dazzling casserole delight.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a savory, hearty base for the meat sauce that boosts flavor depth.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce: Adds savory tomato warmth and a classic Italian kick.
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli: The star of the dish, offering cheesy pockets that soften to perfection when baked.
- 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese: Brings creamy richness and a mellow tang to the cheese layer.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a velvety smooth texture and subtle acidity for balance.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Essential for that gooey, melty topping and cheese-filled middle layer.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkles a sharp, nutty finish on top that’s simply irresistible.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning: Packs in herbs like oregano and basil, adding aromatic Italian flair.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors in the casserole.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a bright, fresh pop of color and flavor at serving.
How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This perfect moderate heat ensures your casserole cooks evenly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while giving the cheese topping enough time to turn golden and bubbly.
Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Browning enhances the beef’s natural savory flavor and creates a delicious base for your sauce. After draining the excess fat, stir in the jar of marinara sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This simmering time lets all the flavors marry perfectly. Season with salt and pepper to your taste to enhance the overall depth.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Cheese Blend
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta (or cottage cheese), sour cream, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and Italian seasoning. Stir this until smooth and creamy. This mixture adds a luscious, tangy layer between the ravioli, balancing the meat sauce’s robust flavors and providing a dreamy texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole Layers
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor. Next, arrange half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer. Spread your creamy cheese mixture evenly over this ravioli layer, then spoon half of the remaining meat sauce on top. Layer on the rest of the ravioli, and cover with the final portion of meat sauce.
Step 5: Top with Cheeses
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese on top. This finishing layer creates that irresistible golden crust and cheesy pull that everyone loves in a baked pasta dish.
Step 6: Bake Covered, Then Uncovered
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes to steam the ravioli and meld the flavors. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes to develop a beautifully browned, bubbly cheese top. This two-step baking is key to perfect texture and appearance.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
After removing from the oven, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes—this helps it set for easier serving. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant, fresh touch that brightens the dish beautifully.
How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic and brightens the rich casserole. For an extra touch, add a few freshly grated Parmesan shavings or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil before serving. These simple garnishes elevate the dish’s appearance and flavor without stealing the show.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is another perfect companion, ideal for mopping up extra sauce and cheese.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive dinner, serve the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for personalized portions. Or transfer to a pretty serving dish, then top with a handful of baby arugula tossed lightly with lemon juice to add peppery brightness. Presentation with vibrant sides and garnishes makes this comforting dish feel truly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover leftover casserole tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, so leftovers can be just as delicious as the first serving.
Freezing
If you want to save it for later, this casserole freezes wonderfully. Wrap it well with foil and plastic wrap, or store in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, cover leftovers with foil to retain moisture, then warm in a 350°F oven until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. Alternatively, microwave individual servings on medium power, stirring halfway, to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh ravioli will work beautifully, but keep in mind the baking time may be slightly shorter since fresh pasta cooks faster than frozen.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage are great alternatives that will give the sauce a different but equally tasty flair. Vegetarian options like lentils or plant-based crumbles also work well.
Is it okay to use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes! Cottage cheese is a great substitute that provides similar creaminess and tang. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid before mixing for best texture.
Can I prepare this casserole entirely in advance?
You can assemble the entire dish the day before, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it fresh when ready. This makes it perfect for stress-free entertaining.
How spicy is the dish?
The recipe is mild and family-friendly, but you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce if you want a little heat.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe, it will become one of your go-to comfort foods that impresses without any fuss. It’s cheesy, saucy, and oh-so-satisfying in every bite. Give it a whirl for your next meal—you might just discover a new favorite that your family and friends will beg you to make again and again.
Print
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a comforting and hearty baked pasta dish featuring layers of cheesy ravioli, savory ground beef marinara, and a creamy mixture of ricotta and sour cream. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole combines rich flavors with gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
Casserole Layers & Topping
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Cook Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add the marinara sauce to the beef, stir well, and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta (or cottage cheese), sour cream, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and Italian seasoning. Mix until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Assemble Casserole Layer 1: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. Then spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over the ravioli.
- Assemble Casserole Layer 2: Top the cheese mixture with half of the remaining meat sauce. Arrange the rest of the frozen ravioli over the sauce in a single layer, followed by the remaining meat sauce on top.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the assembled casserole.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and ravioli to cook through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese topping is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes to set before garnishing with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty, cheesy meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter texture.
- Using fresh parsley for garnish adds a burst of color and freshness.
- Make sure to drain excess fat from cooked ground beef for a less greasy casserole.
- Frozen ravioli does not require thawing before assembling the casserole.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
