If you are looking for a rich, comforting dish that will have everyone asking for seconds, this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. Picture layers of tender cheese ravioli smothered in a savory meat and marinara sauce, cushioned by a luscious mix of cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese, all topped with a golden blanket of melted mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings ease and bold flavors together in one unforgettable casserole.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the secret to making this recipe incredibly straightforward yet incredibly flavorful. Each component plays a key role, whether adding creaminess, acidity, or that irresistible cheesy pull.
- Frozen cheese ravioli: The star pasta ingredient that soaks up all the sauce and cheese layers beautifully without any pre-cooking needed.
- Ground beef: Adds hearty flavor and protein, perfectly balanced by the tangy marinara sauce.
- Marinara or spaghetti sauce: Brings freshness and acidity to cut through the richness of the cheeses.
- Cream cheese (softened): Gives a velvety texture to the creamy layer, binding everything together.
- Sour cream: Adds tang and silkiness, making the cheese layer extra luscious.
- Cottage cheese: Contributes a light texture and protein boost, balancing the cream cheese’s richness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stringy perfection atop the layers for a classic cheesy finish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a salty, nutty crust after baking.
- Italian seasoning: Provides a fragrant herbal note that ties the sauce ingredients together.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer to perfection.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.
How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s fully browned. This step builds a robust base flavor, and draining off any excess fat ensures your casserole won’t be greasy. The beef is the savory backbone of this recipe.
Step 2: Simmer with Marinara and Seasoning
Next, stir in the marinara sauce along with the Italian seasoning, then let everything simmer gently for about five minutes. This melds the flavors beautifully, allowing the herbs to infuse the meat sauce. It’s the kind of rich sauce you’ll want to scoop up by itself.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until the mixture is smooth and blended. This creamy combo adds luscious moisture and a slight tang that balances the meaty tomato sauce perfectly.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and start by spreading a thin layer of your meat sauce over the bottom. Then, arrange half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce, followed by half of the creamy cheese mixture. Sprinkle on one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layer process with the remaining ravioli, cheese mixture, and meat sauce for a hearty structure of flavors.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Finish the casserole by scattering the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the top is bubbly and beautifully golden. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving—this step helps everything set nicely for perfect slices.
How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch that not only brightens the dish visually but also introduces a slight herbal freshness that cuts through the richness. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference.
Side Dishes
This casserole is pretty hearty on its own, but pairing it with crisp green salads, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables creates a well-rounded meal. A tangy Caesar salad or roasted asparagus work beautifully to provide textural contrast and a burst of freshness beside the rich casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a casual dinner or potluck, consider serving individual portions in small ramekins topped with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh herbs. For a family-style dinner, offer slices straight from the baking dish with colorful salad bowls and bread baskets on the side to encourage sharing and second helpings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for delicious meals the next day. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. For pre-baking, assemble the dish and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. Baked leftovers also freeze well when cooled and stored properly.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or thawed portions in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, usually 20-25 minutes. To prevent dryness, cover loosely with foil initially and remove the foil near the end for a crispy top. Alternatively, microwave individual servings covered on medium power, stirring halfway for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use Italian sausage instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Swapping ground beef for Italian sausage adds extra flavor and a bit of spice, making your casserole even more sensational. Just brown the sausage the same way as the beef in the recipe.
Do I need to thaw the frozen ravioli before assembling?
No need to thaw. The ravioli can go straight from the freezer into the casserole layers, which is a huge time saver and helps them hold their shape while baking.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Yes! Omit the meat entirely and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or spinach to keep things hearty and flavorful without the beef. You’ll still get all the creamy, cheesy goodness the recipe promises.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely. You can assemble the entire casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, just bake it according to the instructions, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
What’s the best way to prevent the casserole from drying out?
Make sure to cover the casserole with foil during most of the baking time to lock in moisture. Removing the foil only during the final 10 to 15 minutes ensures a golden crust without drying out the interior.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe brings homemade comfort food to a whole new level of easy and delicious. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish for friends, this casserole strikes the perfect balance of cheesy, creamy, and savory flavors. Dive in, and get ready to make this your new favorite weeknight winner!
Print
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a hearty and cheesy baked pasta dish featuring frozen cheese ravioli layered with a savory meat sauce, creamy cheese mixture, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This comforting casserole is easy to prepare, perfect for family dinners, and can be customized with Italian sausage or vegetarian substitutes.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
Other Ingredients
- 1 (25-ounce) bag frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat for a leaner sauce.
- Make Meat Sauce: Stir in the marinara or spaghetti sauce and Italian seasoning to the cooked beef. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Assemble Casserole Layer 1: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Add half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer on top.
- Add Cheese and Mozzarella: Spread half of the cheese mixture over the ravioli, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Assemble Casserole Layer 2: Repeat the layering process with the remaining ravioli, cheese mixture, and meat sauce.
- Top with Cheese: Finish by topping the casserole with the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown on top.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- Substitute the ground beef with Italian sausage to add extra flavor and spice.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach as a flavorful alternative.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; add a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking from cold.
- Use pre-shredded cheese to save preparation time, but freshly grated Parmesan tends to melt better and offer more flavor.
