Description
Cheesy, creamy Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole packed with layers of sauce, seasoned meat, and gooey cheese—a perfect main dish for pasta lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef – This ingredient substitutes traditional pork bacon, providing a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
- 1 small onion, chopped – Adds depth and sweetness to the meat mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Offers aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce – The foundation of the casserole’s rich tomato flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes – Enhances the sauce’s texture and adds natural sweetness.
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli – This provides the essential comfort food component, combining perfectly with the flavors of the dish.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – Contributes creaminess and a slightly sweet flavor note.
- 1/2 cup sour cream – Adds tang and richness to the layers.
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened – Creates a luxurious texture and binds the ingredients.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – The gooey and melty cheese on top that ties everything together.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Offers a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning – A blend of dried herbs that brings authenticity to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the ingredients.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – For a touch of color and freshness as a garnish.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly cooked.
- In a large skillet, cook 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat along with 1 small chopped onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté until the ground beef is browned and the onion is translucent, around 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add 1 jar (24 oz) of marinara sauce and 1 can (15 oz) of crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste, as well as 1 tbsp of Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- In a large baking dish, start layering your ingredients. Begin with a layer of the meat sauce at the bottom. Follow this with a layer of 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli.
- Next, spoon in 1 cup of ricotta cheese, followed by 1/2 cup of sour cream and 1 package (8 oz) of softened cream cheese, dolloping it over the ravioli. Then sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Repeat the layering process by adding more meat sauce, another layer of ravioli, ricotta, sour cream, cream cheese, and finishing with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Once your layers are complete, top the casserole with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheese kick.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before garnishing with fresh chopped parsley (if desired). Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious creation!