Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe

This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole combines layers of cheesy, creamy goodness with tender ravioli and a flavorful meat sauce, creating a rich, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 1 (25-ounce) bag frozen cheese ravioli (do not thaw)
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (or a combination)
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Creamy Layer

• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)

For the Topping

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Layer

1. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

1. Spread 1/3 of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Arrange half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce.
3. Spread half of the creamy mixture over the ravioli.
4. Sprinkle 1/3 of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the creamy layer.
5. Repeat the layers: sauce, remaining ravioli, creamy mixture, and another 1/3 of the cheese.
6. Finish with the remaining meat sauce and top with the last 1/3 of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this dish with garlic bread or a side of steamed vegetables.
• Serve with a crisp Caesar salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Ravioli Variety: Use cheese ravioli for a classic flavor, or try spinach, mushroom, or beef ravioli for variation.
• Meatless Option: Omit the ground beef or sausage and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for a vegetarian version.
• Freezer-Friendly: Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 20–30 minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes! If using fresh ravioli, reduce the baking time by about 10 minutes since they cook faster.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before baking.

This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent dinner that’s easy to make yet feels special enough for any occasion. It’s sure to become a family favorite!