Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a cheesy, savory dish that combines all the best elements of a classic Italian meal—cheese ravioli, ground beef, marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. This casserole is easy to make and is sure to be a family favorite. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent and comforting, but is simple enough to prepare in under an hour.
Ingredients
- 1 package (25 ounces) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the ravioli according to the package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Grease a 2-1/2-quart baking dish, then layer half of the ravioli, cooked ground beef, marinara sauce, and cheeses.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, uncover the dish and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Use Different Sauces: Try using Alfredo sauce or a combination of marinara and pesto for a twist on the traditional flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a bit of heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
10 FAQs
- Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen? Yes, fresh ravioli can be used in place of frozen. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Bake for 40-45 minutes, covered, and then add the extra 10 minutes of uncovered baking.
- What can I serve with this casserole? Serve with a side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables to complement the richness of the casserole.
- Can I use a different kind of cheese? Yes, you can use any type of cheese you like. Cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses would also work well.
- Can I use a different type of pasta? If you don’t have ravioli, you can use regular cheese-filled tortellini or any pasta shape you prefer.
- Is this casserole gluten-free? If you need a gluten-free version, be sure to use gluten-free ravioli and check that the marinara sauce is gluten-free.
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, skip the ground beef and add extra vegetables or substitute with vegetarian protein like lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Can I add more cheese? Absolutely! If you love cheese, feel free to add more mozzarella or Parmesan to the layers or sprinkle extra on top before baking.
- How do I prevent the top from burning? To avoid over-browning the top, you can cover the casserole with foil for the first 30 minutes, then uncover it to allow the cheese to melt and bubble for the final 10 minutes.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a satisfying and simple dish that combines all the delicious flavors of a cheesy Italian dinner in one pan. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this casserole is full of flavor, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to please the whole family. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or looking for a meal to enjoy throughout the week, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.