Irresistible Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever craved a dish that combines comfort and elegance in one bite? The Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is just that—a delightful blend of rich flavors, creamy textures, and mouthwatering aromas that will leave your taste buds dancing. Imagine sinking your fork into layers of tender ravioli smothered in cheesy goodness, with hints of garlic and herbs wafting through the air. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, offering a sense of warmth that brings everyone together.

Reflecting on my own experiences, I remember the first time I tasted this casserole at a friend’s dinner party. It was an instant hit, with everyone raving about the incredible flavor combination. Since then, I’ve made it countless times for various occasions—from holiday feasts to casual get-togethers. Each time, it surprises me how a simple dish can evoke such joy and satisfaction. So, if you’re looking to impress your guests or simply indulge yourself in a comforting meal, let’s dive into making this irresistible Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole.

Key Ingredients For Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

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

• Ravioli: Opt for cheese-filled or meat-filled ravioli to add depth of flavor; fresh or frozen works well.
• Marinara Sauce: Choose a high-quality jarred sauce or homemade for the best taste; it serves as the flavorful base.
• Ricotta Cheese: Fresh ricotta gives creaminess; consider adding herbs for an extra flavor boost.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Use whole milk mozzarella for melting perfection; it creates that gooey texture we all love.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty finish; fresh is always better than pre-grated.

For the Seasoning:

• Garlic Powder: This enhances the overall flavor; adjust according to your preference.
• Dried Italian Herbs: A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme will elevate the dish’s aroma and taste.

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

Instructions For Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Second Step: Prepare the Ravioli

If using frozen ravioli, cook them according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Third Step: Mix the Cheeses

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese. Add garlic powder and dried herbs to enhance flavor. Stir until well blended.

Fourth Step: Layer the Casserole

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Layer half of the cooked ravioli over it. Next, spoon half of the cheese mixture over ravioli followed by another layer of marinara sauce.

Fifth Step: Repeat Layers

Repeat layering with remaining ravioli and cheese mixture. Top everything with the rest of marinara sauce and sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top for that cheesy crust.

Sixth Step: Bake It!

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra marinara sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh cheeses and homemade sauces for superior flavor.
• Add Veggies: Consider adding spinach or mushrooms between layers for added nutrition and texture.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble this casserole ahead of time; just cover it tightly in plastic wrap before baking.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, follow these simple steps. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, brown one pound of ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat. Once the meat is cooked, drain any excess fat and add your favorite pasta sauce to the skillet. Stir in one can of diced tomatoes for extra flavor and let this mixture simmer for about 10 minutes.

Next, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish. Layer half of the frozen cheese ravioli over the sauce, followed by half of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat these layers, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top.

Now it’s time to add cheese! Sprinkle two cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the casserole. For an extra touch, you can also add some grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together perfectly!

Serving Suggestions

This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. It pairs wonderfully with fresh garlic bread, which can soak up any leftover sauce on your plate. A crisp garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements this hearty dish well and adds a refreshing crunch.

For those who love a bit of heat, consider serving this casserole with sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes on top. A side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans can also balance out this filling meal beautifully.

If you have leftovers, don’t worry! The Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole reheats well and tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop.

Storage Tips

Storing your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole properly ensures you can enjoy it later without sacrificing taste or quality. Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to three days when stored correctly.

If you’ve made a large batch and want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions of your casserole. Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. They will stay fresh for up to three months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Presentation Ideas

This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Fresh herbs like basil or parsley sprinkled on top before serving add color and freshness.
• A drizzle of olive oil enhances flavor while giving it a gourmet touch.
• Baby spinach leaves can be placed around the casserole dish for added color and nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes! You can absolutely use fresh ravioli in your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole if you prefer that texture and taste. Just be mindful that fresh ravioli cooks faster than frozen ones, so adjust your baking time accordingly to avoid overcooking them.

What other ingredients can I add to my casserole?

Feel free to customize your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole by adding vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into your meat mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like ricotta or provolone, to create unique variations that suit your taste buds.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. This is perfect for meal prep or hosting guests since all you need to do is pop it in the oven when it’s time to eat!

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes! The Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole freezes very well. After baking, allow it to cool completely before storing portions in airtight containers or wrapping them tightly for freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven until hot throughout.