If you are looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with the ease of a one-dish meal, look no further than this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe. Layers of tender cheese ravioli, savory ground beef simmered in marinara, and a luscious blend of creamy cheeses come together to create an indulgent casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether for a family dinner or a potluck, this recipe is both straightforward and spectacular, promising a memorable meal every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients that balance taste, texture, and color perfectly. From the savory ground beef to the gooey melted cheese combinations, each component plays a critical role in making this casserole irresistibly delicious.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base full of rich flavor and protein.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce: Adds tangy tomato goodness and keeps the dish moist.
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli: Tender pockets of cheesy delight that form the casserole’s foundation.
- 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese: Brings creamy texture and mild flavor to the cheese layer.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tang and silkiness to the cheese mixture for richness.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts beautifully on top and within, delivering a classic gooey texture.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, savory kick that enhances overall depth.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses the dish with herbal notes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together harmoniously.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and lovely color contrast.
How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and the cheese gets perfectly melted and bubbly later on. Getting your oven ready upfront makes the process smooth and seamless.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink. Be sure to break it up into small pieces so it cooks evenly. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness, then stir in the jar of marinara sauce. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes so all the flavors meld beautifully. Season with salt and pepper as needed — tasting now is the secret to perfect seasoning.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture
Combine ricotta or cottage cheese, sour cream, one cup of shredded mozzarella, and Italian seasoning in a mixing bowl. Mix this until smooth and well blended. This creamy layer contrasts wonderfully with the robust meat sauce and tender ravioli, giving every bite a luscious texture.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking and create a flavorful base. Next, arrange half of the frozen cheese ravioli in a single even layer over the sauce. Spread the creamy cheese mixture on top of the ravioli, then add half of the remaining meat sauce. Follow with the rest of the ravioli in a second layer, and cover with the remaining meat sauce for a rich finish.
Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining one cup of shredded mozzarella along with the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. This cheesy topping will melt and brown beautifully, adding an irresistible golden crust that’s simply mouth-watering.
Step 6: Bake Covered and Then Uncovered
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This keeps the ravioli tender and allows the flavors to blend perfectly. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes to let the cheese on top become bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes to settle everything in and make it easier to serve. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving warm.
How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the perfect simple garnish to brighten the rich casserole. For an extra burst of freshness, consider a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to add a little kick.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with crisp green salads topped with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, make for light, colorful sides.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant touch, serve individual portions in small ramekins or cast iron skillets and garnish each with a sprig of fresh basil or a light dusting of grated Parmesan. You can also top each serving with a few sun-dried tomatoes or toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture and prevent drying out.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble the dish completely but do not bake. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it heats through.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover and heat in short bursts to keep the cheesy layers creamy without overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh ravioli will work wonderfully and may reduce baking time slightly. Just be gentle when layering and keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes to avoid overcooking the delicate pasta.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, eggplant, or a plant-based meat substitute. Just use the same method to build your sauce and layers while maintaining the cheesy goodness.
What’s the best cheese to use in this recipe?
The combination of ricotta, sour cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates the perfect balance of creamy, melty, and tangy flavors. While you can experiment, sticking close to these cheeses will yield the classic flavor that makes this dish so special.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Just be sure to use gluten-free ravioli and verify that your marinara sauce does not contain gluten. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, mix red pepper flakes into the meat sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the cheese mixture. Fresh chopped jalapeños on top before baking also give a wonderful spicy kick.
Final Thoughts
This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe truly lives up to its name, offering a luxurious, comforting meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this dish deserves a spot in your regular recipe rotation. Don’t wait to dive in and share this cheesy, savory treasure with those you love—it’s guaranteed to become one of your favorite go-to meals!
Print
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a hearty and comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring layers of ground beef simmered in marinara sauce, creamy ricotta and sour cream mixture, tender frozen cheese ravioli, and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Baked to bubbly perfection, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, delivering rich flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
Assembly
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (additional)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then add the marinara sauce. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste for balanced flavor.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta or cottage cheese, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Lay half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. Spread the prepared creamy cheese mixture evenly over the ravioli. Top this with half of the remaining meat sauce. Add the rest of the frozen ravioli in a single layer, then pour the remaining meat sauce on top.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and the ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to cook the ravioli and meld the flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving warm for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Use ricotta cheese for a creamier texture or cottage cheese as a lighter option.
- Frozen ravioli can be used directly from the freezer without thawing.
- Adjust Italian seasoning according to preference for more or less herb flavor.
- The casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce while simmering.
