If you’re craving a comforting Italian classic but want something fuss-free and ready when you are, this Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine layers of cheesy, saucy ravioli bubbling away in your slow cooker, melding flavors into a hearty, family-friendly meal without the usual time-consuming preparation. With minimal effort, you get all the rich satisfaction of lasagna, but without the stacking of noodles or careful timing. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become your go-to recipe for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are both simple and essential, each playing its part to build the perfect balance of rich flavors, satisfying textures, and vibrant colors in this Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe.
- Frozen cheese ravioli (25 oz): No need to thaw—these tender pasta pillows create the perfect “noodle” base for layering.
- Ground beef or Italian sausage (1 lb): Adds savory depth and hearty protein to the dish.
- Marinara or pasta sauce (24 oz jar): Brings the classic tangy tomato flavor that ties everything together.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant blend that lifts the sauce with earthy herbs and warmth.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Provides that gooey, stretchy, golden cheese finish everyone loves.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Lends a salty, nutty kick to enhance every bite.
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup, optional): Creates creamy pockets within each layer for extra indulgence.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): For a fresh, bright garnish that adds color and a fragrant herbal note.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Meat
Start by browning the ground beef or Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s cooked through and beautifully caramelized, drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming greasy. Stir in the Italian seasoning followed by the marinara sauce, then let it warm through. This step infuses your sauce with meaty richness and herbaceous flavor that will coat the ravioli beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Crockpot Layers
Lightly grease the bottom of your slow cooker and spread a thin layer of the meat sauce across it. This keeps the ravioli from sticking and sets the foundation for delicious layers. Then place a single layer of frozen ravioli over the sauce—no need to thaw, which saves you time!
Step 3: Build Up the Layers
Spoon more of the meat sauce over the ravioli layer. If you’re using ricotta cheese for those luscious creamy spots, dollop it on top of the sauce evenly. Follow that with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat these layers—ravioli, sauce, ricotta, cheeses—until you’ve used all your ingredients, finishing with a beautiful cheesy topping that will melt to golden perfection.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your crockpot and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, allowing the ravioli to soften while the flavors meld into cheesy lasagna delight. If you’re short on time, HIGH for 2 to 3 hours works too, but the slower cook always yields more tender results. When the cheese is melted and bubbly, you’re ready for the best part—serving!
Step 5: Let It Rest and Garnish
Give your Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe a 10-minute rest before serving so the layers set slightly, making it easier to dish out those perfect portions. Sprinkle fresh chopped basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens this rich, comforting meal.
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley provide a fresh, aromatic contrast to the rich cheese and tomato sauce. For an extra touch, some crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good olive oil can elevate the dish to a restaurant-worthy finish right at your table.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus also add a delightful texture and nutrition boost.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual dinners, serve it family-style straight from the crockpot to keep things relaxed and cozy. If you want to impress guests, spoon portions onto warm plates, adding a fresh basil leaf and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for beautiful presentation. Individual ramekins baked in the crockpot can also make charming personal servings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This lasagna keeps well when transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before enjoying again.
Freezing
You can freeze any leftover Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe by portioning it into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve that comforting, tender texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven until hot throughout. Adding a splash of water or covering with foil while reheating can help maintain moisture, ensuring each bite is just as good as the first.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh ravioli will cook faster, so reduce the crockpot time slightly to avoid overcooking. Keep a close eye on texture to maintain that perfect tender bite.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or your favorite veggies. Use a marinara that’s meat-free and you’ll still have a delicious, hearty Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe.
Can I prepare this recipe the night before?
For sure! Assemble the layers in the crockpot insert, cover it, and keep it refrigerated overnight. Next day, just pop it into the crockpot and cook as directed for a fresh, warm meal.
What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
No worries! Ricotta adds creamy richness but is entirely optional. You can either leave it out or substitute with cottage cheese if you like a similar texture.
How do I prevent the bottom from sticking to the slow cooker?
Greasing the slow cooker or spraying it with non-stick spray before layering helps a lot. Also, starting with a thin sauce layer on the bottom creates a protective barrier that prevents sticking.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe enough for anyone who loves hearty Italian flavors but wants convenience and minimal cleanup. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug after a long day, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give it a try—you’ll soon see why this dish holds a special place in my kitchen and hopefully yours too!
Print
Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is a comforting, layered casserole that combines frozen cheese ravioli, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheeses, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot. It’s a simple, hands-off recipe that brings the delicious flavors of traditional lasagna together without the fuss of boiling noodles or assembling multiple layers in a pan. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
Lasagna Layers
- 1 (25 oz) bag frozen cheese ravioli (no need to thaw)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for creamy layers)
Garnish (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Cook the meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the Italian seasoning and pasta sauce. Heat the mixture through to meld the flavors.
- Prepare the crockpot: Grease the inside of your slow cooker. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking and start the layering process.
- Layer the ravioli: Add a single layer of frozen cheese ravioli directly over the sauce in the crockpot. No need to thaw them beforehand.
- Add sauce over ravioli: Spoon some of the meat sauce evenly over the layer of ravioli, ensuring each piece gets some sauce.
- Add ricotta cheese (optional): Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta over the sauce layer to create creamy pockets throughout the dish.
- Sprinkle cheeses: Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the ricotta and sauce layers to add melty cheesy goodness.
- Repeat layers: Continue layering ravioli, sauce, ricotta (if using), and cheeses until all ingredients are used, finishing the top layer with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. Cook until the ravioli is tender and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Once cooked, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Let the lasagna rest in the crockpot for about 10 minutes before serving to set the layers.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for different flavors.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap out the meat for sautéed mushrooms and other vegetables.
- Ricotta is optional but adds a creamy texture and richness to the dish.
- To make cleanup easier, spray the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray before assembling.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
