Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

This Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is the ultimate weeknight dinner hack. It’s incredibly easy to assemble, requires minimal effort, and delivers all the rich, cheesy, and comforting flavors of traditional lasagna. With layers of ravioli, hearty sauce, and melted cheese, your slow cooker does all the work while you enjoy the aroma of this delicious meal.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 24 oz marinara or pasta sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lasagna:

• 1 bag (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli (or meat ravioli)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet, sautéing until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

1. In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, garlic powder, and parsley. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Ravioli Lasagna

1. Spray the inside of your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray or line it with a slow cooker liner.
2. Spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom of the crockpot.
3. Add a layer of frozen ravioli, ensuring the pieces slightly overlap.
4. Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli, then sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Repeat the layers: sauce, ravioli, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Continue layering until all ingredients are used, ending with a generous layer of cheese on top.

Step 4: Cook the Lasagna

1. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours. The ravioli should be tender, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Scoop the lasagna onto plates and enjoy!

Tips for Success

1. Use Frozen Ravioli: No need to thaw the ravioli; the frozen texture helps keep the layers intact during cooking.
2. Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, add a layer of spinach, sliced zucchini, or mushrooms between the ravioli layers.
3. Customize the Sauce: Use spicy Italian sausage for added flavor or mix in a splash of red wine for richness.
4. Cheese Variation: Feel free to swap in shredded provolone or gouda for a unique flavor twist.

FAQs

1. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef or sausage for plant-based ground meat or omit it entirely. You can also add more vegetables for a hearty, meat-free version.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover ravioli lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

3. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.

4. Can this be made ahead?
Yes! Assemble the lasagna in the crockpot the night before, store it in the fridge, and start cooking the next day.

This Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna delivers the comforting flavors of a homemade lasagna with half the effort. It’s perfect for busy days or when you want a satisfying meal without turning on the oven. Enjoy this easy, cheesy crowd-pleaser!