Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Experience the comforting flavors of Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, featuring layers of cheese ravioli, hearty meat sauce, and a creamy, cheesy topping. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a decadent weeknight dinner! Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a warm, filling meal, this casserole is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this casserole can be on your table in just over an hour.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of ground beef, marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe can easily be adapted with different ingredients.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy digging into this cheesy comfort food.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare this casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole efficiently, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is ideal for layering all your ingredients evenly to achieve that perfect bake.
- Large skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef and mixing in the marinara sauce without spilling.
- Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining the cheese mixture smoothly before adding the ravioli.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 (25-ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (28-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese, divided
How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled.
2. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce and remove from heat. Set aside.
Step 3: Combine the Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, half of the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt until smooth.
2. Gently fold in the frozen ravioli so that each piece is evenly coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In your prepared baking dish:
1. Spread the ravioli and cheese mixture evenly across the bottom.
2. Pour the meat sauce over this layer.
3. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil:
1. Bake for 30 minutes at 400°F (204°C).
2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving to help set all layers. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole!
How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Serving Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole can be a delightful experience. This dish is rich and filling, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
Add a Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing and croutons adds a nice crunch.
Pair with Bread
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic breadsticks or slices provide a flavorful side that everyone loves.
- Focaccia: Soft, herb-infused focaccia is great for soaking up any sauce left on the plate.
Garnish Creatively
- Fresh Basil: Chopped basil sprinkled on top adds freshness and color to the dish.
- Parmesan Shavings: A few shavings of Parmesan cheese on each serving elevate the presentation.
How to Perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Achieving the perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is easier than you think. Here are some helpful tips to make your dish shine.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh cheeses and high-quality marinara sauce for richer flavors.
- Layer Wisely: Ensure even layers of meat sauce and ravioli to achieve balanced flavor in every bite.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to cool for 10 minutes after baking helps the layers set well before serving.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing different cheeses like ricotta or fontina for unique flavors.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporating vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can add nutritional value and variety.
Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Finding the right side dishes to accompany your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that pair well with this hearty main course.
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds color and nutrition, easily prepared by steaming until tender.
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil and roast until crisp-tender for a delightful contrast in texture.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, and cheeses offers a savory complement to the casserole’s richness.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide extra comfort alongside the casserole.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic vinegar adds freshness to balance the dish’s heaviness.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, brightening up each bite of the casserole.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat to ensure your casserole bakes properly.
- Overcooking the Meat: Cooking the ground beef too long can make it tough. Aim for a nice brown color without overcooking.
- Not Greasing the Dish: Failing to grease the baking dish may result in sticking. Use nonstick spray or oil to facilitate easy serving.
- Ignoring Rest Time: Cutting into the casserole too soon can cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold cream cheese can create lumps in your mixture. Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth blend.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- item Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
- item Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
- item Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for best results.
- item It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, checking every minute until warm.
- Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole.
Can I use other types of ravioli?
Yes, you can use different flavors of ravioli like spinach or mushroom for variety.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can substitute ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or omit it altogether.
Can I prepare Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
What sides pair well with this casserole?
A fresh salad or garlic bread complements the rich flavors perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a delightful dish that combines comfort food with ease. Its layers of cheese and savory meat sauce create a satisfying meal that is perfect for busy nights. Plus, you can customize it by adding vegetables or using different cheeses. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Indulge in the comforting layers of Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, a delightful dish that combines cheesy ravioli, hearty meat sauce, and a creamy topping. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, bringing rich flavors that everyone will love. With just over an hour of prep and cook time, you can serve this delicious meal to your loved ones without the fuss. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this savory Italian casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 (25-ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (28-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat; drain excess grease.
- Stir in marinara sauce and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, half of the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt until smooth. Gently fold in the frozen ravioli.
- Layer the ravioli mixture in the prepared dish, top with meat sauce and remaining cheeses.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
