Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

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If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is exactly what you need. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with layers of ravioli, creamy cheese filling, and a hearty meat sauce—all baked to perfection. This dish tastes like it came straight from an Italian restaurant, yet it’s incredibly easy to make at home. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or serving guests, this casserole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

The Ultimate Cheesy Ravioli Casserole

This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a game-changer for pasta lovers. Instead of using traditional lasagna noodles, we take a shortcut with frozen or fresh ravioli. Each bite is bursting with layers of pillowy pasta, creamy ricotta mixture, gooey melted cheese, and savory meat sauce. It’s a no-fuss, bake-and-enjoy kind of meal that brings together all the flavors of a homemade lasagna with half the effort.

Ingredients for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

To create this rich and satisfying casserole, you’ll need a combination of simple, flavorful ingredients that come together for the ultimate comfort dish.

• Frozen or Fresh Cheese Ravioli – This replaces traditional pasta, making the recipe incredibly easy while adding a creamy, cheesy filling in every bite. Use your favorite brand of ravioli.
• Ground Beef or Italian Sausage – A hearty, flavorful protein that forms the base of the meat sauce. You can use a combination of both for extra depth of flavor.
• Marinara Sauce – A high-quality store-bought marinara or homemade sauce works perfectly to coat the ravioli and blend all the flavors together.
• Ricotta Cheese – This adds a creamy, rich layer to balance out the tangy marinara and melted cheese. Cottage cheese can be used as an alternative.
• Cream Cheese – The secret ingredient that gives this casserole its signature “million-dollar” creamy texture. It makes the dish extra luscious.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Essential for that gooey, cheesy top layer. Choose a high-quality mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty richness to the dish and enhances the overall cheesiness.
• Egg – Helps bind the ricotta and cream cheese mixture, making it smooth and creamy.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary to enhance the overall Italian flavors.
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder – Boosts the savory flavors in the cheese and meat layers.
• Fresh Parsley (optional) – A garnish for a pop of color and freshness.

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How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

This ravioli casserole is incredibly easy to assemble and bake. Follow these simple steps for a deliciously cheesy, comforting meal.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until smooth and well blended.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Start layering the ingredients in the prepared baking dish:

1. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
2. Add a single layer of frozen or fresh ravioli over the sauce.
3. Spread half of the cheese mixture evenly over the ravioli.
4. Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella on top.
5. Repeat the layers, adding another layer of ravioli, remaining cheese mixture, more meat sauce, and mozzarella.
6. Finish with a final layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy topping.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

How Long to Bake Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

The baking time for this casserole ensures that the ravioli becomes tender, the cheese is perfectly melted, and the flavors meld together beautifully. Here’s a general guide:

• Covered Baking Time – Bake for 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C) with foil on. This allows the ravioli to cook through without drying out.
• Uncovered Baking Time – Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to let the cheese brown and become bubbly.
• Resting Time – Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.

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How to Store Leftovers

This casserole is perfect for meal prepping or saving leftovers for later. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Freezer – Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole freezes well! Wrap the entire baking dish in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer individual portions to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating – If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Individual servings can be microwaved in 1-minute increments.

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Tips for the Perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Here are some key tips to ensure your ravioli casserole turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Frozen or Fresh Ravioli – No need to pre-cook the ravioli! It will cook perfectly in the oven as it bakes with the sauce.
• Don’t Skip the Cream Cheese – This is what makes the dish extra creamy and gives it the “million-dollar” richness.
• Customize the Protein – Swap out ground beef for Italian sausage, ground turkey, or a meatless alternative for a different twist.
• Let It Rest Before Serving – This helps the casserole firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
• Make It Ahead – Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a true comfort food masterpiece—easy to make, loaded with flavor, and guaranteed to become a family favorite!

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