Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to throw together, the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is your new best friend. This dish takes simple frozen cheese ravioli and transforms it into a rich, comforting casserole layered with a savory ground beef, creamy ricotta mixture, and melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s exactly the kind of recipe you’ll want to make when you need a hearty meal that’s guaranteed to impress everyone at the table with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential to the success of this dish. Each one brings its unique texture, flavor, or creaminess that makes the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole truly unforgettable.

• Frozen cheese ravioli: Use a good-quality 25 oz package to keep things simple yet delicious, providing the perfect pasta base.
• Ground beef: Adds hearty protein and a savory component that balances the creamy layers.
• Garlic powder: Brings subtle warmth and enhances the beef’s flavor without overpowering it.
• Marinara sauce: Choose a flavorful 24 oz jar to offer vibrant tomato tang and moisture throughout the casserole.
• Ricotta cheese: Gives the casserole a rich, creamy texture and softness that contrasts nicely with the meat.
• Sour cream: Adds tanginess and silkiness, helping the ricotta mixture stay luscious.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly on top and between layers, delivering that gooey cheese pull everyone loves.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkles in a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella and ricotta.
• Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings herbs like oregano and basil to elevate the casserole’s flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer and bringing the dish together with balanced flavors.

How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This sets the stage for your casserole and prevents sticking, making cleanup easier.

Step 2: Cook the Ravioli

Boil the frozen cheese ravioli following the package instructions until al dente. Properly cooked ravioli ensures the perfect texture—not too soft or mushy—when baked later.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

While the ravioli cooks, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to infuse flavor. Once fully cooked, drain the excess fat to keep the casserole rich but not greasy.

Step 4: Mix the Ricotta Layer

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sour cream, and Italian seasoning. This mixture forms a creamy, herbaceous layer that binds the casserole and adds delightful richness.

Step 5: Assemble the Layers

Start by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Then layer half the ravioli, followed by half the ricotta mixture and half the cooked beef. Add more marinara sauce, then sprinkle half the mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat these steps with the remaining ingredients to build flavors in every bite.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the assembled casserole tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the top turns golden brown and bubbly—this caramelized cheese crust is what dreams are made of.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Let the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole rest for 10 minutes outside the oven. This short cooling period allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve perfectly shaped portions.

How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley brightens the dish with color and adds a fresh herbaceous note that cuts through the richness beautifully. A few red pepper flakes can add a mild kick for those who love a bit of heat.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette, offering a refreshing contrast to the creamy cheese and savory beef. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also perfect for mopping up any extra saucy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to dress it up for a special occasion, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions. You can also sprinkle extra cheese atop each serving and quickly broil for a few minutes to add a bubbly, golden crust just before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic next-day meal.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble it fully but do not bake, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning and remove the foil near the end for that fresh-from-the-oven appearance.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ravioli?

Absolutely! While cheese ravioli is traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with meat or spinach ravioli to change up the flavor profile. Just adjust seasoning accordingly.

Is it necessary to brown the ground beef first?

Yes, browning the beef adds depth of flavor and removes excess fat, which helps keep your casserole from becoming greasy and enhances the overall taste.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the ground beef and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly version that’s just as satisfying.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No worries—mix your own using dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary in equal parts. This fresh blend will keep the casserole flavorful and authentic.

How long does the casserole last after cooking?

Once baked, the casserole will keep safely in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container for best quality.

Final Thoughts

Give this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole a try the next time you want a satisfying, homey meal that feels like a special occasion without requiring hours in the kitchen. The layers of cheese, beef, and sauce come together in such a delicious way that it’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation. You’ll love sharing this cozy casserole with family and friends!

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