Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Spread the love

introduction

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a delightful and hearty dish that brings the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine into a quick and easy casserole format. It delivers layers of cheesy goodness, savory meat, and delicious ravioli, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings. Each bite is a perfect marriage of textures and flavors, creating a meal that is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. If you’re looking for a way to impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this is the dish for you.

why make this recipe

There are plenty of reasons to whip up a batch of Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. First and foremost, it is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a potluck, or just a weekday dinner, this casserole appeals to both kids and adults alike. The layers of cheese and meat create a comforting, homey feel that everyone enjoys.

Another reason is the simplicity of the preparation. You can have this dish ready to bake in just 30 minutes, and it allows you to utilize frozen ravioli, which means you can make it anytime without prior planning. Additionally, it calls for ingredients that are typically straightforward to find at your local grocery store. This recipe is also versatile—feel free to swap out ingredients based on your dietary preferences! If you are in the mood for something different, there are many ways to customize it.

Lastly, the casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and then bake it when you need it. This makes it a great option for busy nights or for those who want to prepare meals for the week.

how to make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Making Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a simple process that involves layering ingredients to create that delicious, signature flavor. Here’s a guide to help you through the preparation.

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/sausage)
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 large egg
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by getting your oven ready while you prepare the other ingredients.
Brown the Ground Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it apart as it cooks, so it browns evenly. If you are using ground turkey or sausage, follow the same method.
Add Sauce: Once the meat is browned, stir in the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and will enhance the taste of your casserole.
Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until fully incorporated. This mixture will add creaminess to your layers.
Layer the Casserole: In a large baking dish, add a thin layer of the meat sauce to cover the bottom. This prevents the pasta from sticking and adds flavor from the bottom up.
Add the Ricotta Mixture: Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the meat sauce layer. This creates a creamy layer that contrasts nicely with the meat sauce.
Sprinkle Cheese: Spread a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta mixture, followed by the remaining grated Parmesan cheese. This will create a gooey, cheesy layer that binds everything together.
Add Ravioli: Next, layer in your frozen cheese ravioli. You can arrange them in a single layer. If you have leftover ravioli, feel free to add another layer or two here.
Repeat the Layers: Pour more meat sauce over the ravioli, followed by the remaining ricotta mixture and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layering process until all your ingredients are used. Make sure to finish with a layer of meat sauce and mozzarella on top, ensuring every bit is covered for that bubbling, cheesy finish.
Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let Sit: After baking, let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes. This helps it set up a bit and makes it easier to serve.
Garnish: Before serving, you can garnish your casserole with fresh basil if desired. It adds a lovely touch and enhances the presentation.

how to serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

When it comes to serving Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, simply spoon it onto plates and offer your guests a generous portion. This dish is hearty and filling, so a side salad or some crusty bread is all you need to round out the meal. To elevate your serving, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra cheese on top before serving.

For a more casual approach, you can present it directly from the baking dish on the table. This encourages sharing and makes for a cozy family-style meal. Pair it with a glass of red wine for adults, or serve it alongside a refreshing lemonade for a family-friendly touch.

how to store Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Storing Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is hassle-free, making it perfect for meal prep or saving leftovers. If you have any leftovers after serving, allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it.

In the Refrigerator: Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, simply pop it in the oven, covered with foil, at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
In the Freezer: If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Make sure to wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then cover it with aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the reheating instructions mentioned for refrigerated leftovers.

tips to make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your casserole will depend largely on the quality of the ingredients you use. Opt for a good quality marinara sauce and fresh cheese for the best results.
Add Vegetables: For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to your meat sauce. This will add flavor and color.
Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or use spicy sausage instead of ground beef.
Cheese Options: Feel free to mix different types of cheese. Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are classic, but adding provolone or even feta can give a unique twist.
Homemade Marinara: If you have time, try making your own marinara sauce. Freshly made sauce can add a personal touch and enhance the flavors even more.
Customize the Layers: Don’t be shy when it comes to layering! If you love cheese, add more mozzarella. If you prefer a richer flavor, increase the ricotta. The layering is part of what makes casserole fun; customize it to your liking.

variation

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is quite versatile, allowing for many different variations to suit your tastes and dietary needs:

Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground meat for vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. You can use lentils or beans for a protein boost, ensuring that the dish remains filling and satisfying.
Different Proteins: If you’re not a fan of beef or want to lighten the dish a bit, try using ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded rotisserie chicken.
Gluten-Free Option: You can opt for gluten-free ravioli to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just make sure to check the marinara sauce for gluten-free ingredients.
Cajun Style: For a Southern twist, consider adding Cajun seasoning to your meat sauce. You can even throw in some cooked andouille sausage for an extra kick.
Creamy Alfredo: Instead of marinara, use a creamy Alfredo sauce. It gives the casserole a different flavor profile and is a hit with those who prefer a cream-based dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole with all its layers and then cover it tightly with foil. Store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. When ready to cook, just remember to adjust the baking time as it may need a bit longer if going in cold from the fridge.

2. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh ravioli will give the dish a different texture and flavor. If using fresh ravioli, you may need to adjust the cooking time, as they typically cook faster.

3. What can I do if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

If ricotta cheese isn’t available, you can utilize cottage cheese as a substitute. Simply blend it slightly to create a smoother texture. Cream cheese can also work in a pinch, but it will change the flavor slightly.

4. How can I make my casserole creamier?

To increase creaminess, consider adding more ricotta cheese or a splash of heavy cream to your layers. You can also mix in cream cheese in the ricotta layer for an ultra-creamy texture.

5. Can I freeze my cooked casserole?

Yes! After cooking, let the casserole cool completely. Then freeze it in an airtight container. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight, and then bake until warmed through.

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is an easy and versatile dish that anyone can make. With its layers of cheesy goodness and great flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!