Irresistible Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe

There’s a dish that dances on your taste buds, wrapping you in its cheesy embrace while whispering sweet nothings of Italian delight. The million dollar ravioli casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience, an adventure through layers of flavor that tantalizes the senses. Picture this: warm, gooey cheese, savory meat, and perfectly cooked ravioli all come together in a bubbling dish that makes your heart sing and your stomach rejoice.

Imagine gathering around the dinner table with family or friends, laughter filling the air as you dig into this comforting casserole. It’s the kind of dish that transforms an ordinary night into something special. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a festive gathering, this million dollar ravioli casserole is sure to impress and create lasting memories.

I still remember the first time I made this dish for my friends; their delighted faces were priceless as they took their first bites.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ravioli: Use fresh or frozen cheese-filled ravioli for optimal flavor and texture.

• Ground Beef: Lean ground beef adds depth; feel free to substitute with turkey or sausage for variety.

• Marinara Sauce: A good quality sauce enhances the flavor; homemade is always best if you have time.

• Cream Cheese: It brings creaminess to the casserole; soften it before mixing for smooth incorporation.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Use whole milk mozzarella for that gooey stretch we all love.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds a nutty flavor that’s simply irresistible.

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs elevates the dish; make sure to sprinkle generously!

• Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding richness; extra virgin is preferred for its robust flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbly, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Add Marinara Sauce: Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning into the cooked meat mixture until well combined. Let simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Create the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with half of the mozzarella cheese until smooth and creamy. This adds richness and flavor that melds beautifully with other ingredients.

Layer it Up!: Spread half of the meat sauce on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Layer half of the ravioli over it followed by half of the cream cheese mixture. Repeat these layers again!

Topping Time!: Finish off by sprinkling remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top. Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Serve hot and watch as your loved ones enjoy every bite of this delicious million dollar ravioli casserole!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven and preparing the filling while the sauce simmers. Layer assembled ravioli with sauce and cheese, then bake until golden.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cheeses or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor. Get creative with herbs for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Sharing this dish with friends made me realize how food can bond people together. The laughter and joy around the table were priceless moments I’ll cherish forever.

FAQ

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh ravioli will work beautifully; just adjust cooking time slightly.

How do I make this casserole gluten-free?

Use gluten-free ravioli and check sauces for hidden gluten ingredients.

What sides pair well with million dollar ravioli casserole?

A crisp salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly, balancing flavors wonderfully.

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Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

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Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a delightful culinary adventure that combines layers of cheesy ravioli, savory ground beef, and rich marinara sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights, promising to create lasting memories around the dinner table. Easy to prepare and customizable, everyone will want seconds!

• Author: Ethan Carter
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 24 oz cheese-filled ravioli
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbly, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning into the cooked meat mixture; simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with half of the mozzarella until smooth.
5. Layer half of the meat sauce in the baking dish, followed by half of the ravioli and half of the cream cheese mixture. Repeat layers.
6. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 70mg