Name: Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 (25 oz) bag frozen cheese ravioli; 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage; 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Rich, cheesy, and layered with hearty goodness—Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. This dish combines pillowy ravioli stuffed with creamy cheese, a robust meat sauce, and a medley of melted cheeses that bubble into golden perfection. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a cozy dinner for friends, this casserole delivers indulgent flavor with minimal effort.

It’s the ultimate upgrade to frozen ravioli, transforming it into a gourmet-style casserole that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The richness of the filling, the tang of marinara, and the gooey cheese topping create layers of flavor in every bite. Even picky eaters and seasoned foodies will ask for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Effortlessly impressive: Uses store-bought ravioli but tastes homemade.
Family favorite: Kid-approved and hearty enough for the hungriest adults.
Perfect for make-ahead: Assemble in advance and bake when needed.
Customizable: Swap in sausage, veggies, or different cheese blends.
Freezer-friendly: Ideal for batch cooking and meal prep.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Before diving into layering your casserole, organizing your kitchen space and prepping the right tools will streamline the process and guarantee better results. Here’s what you’ll need and why each tool matters:

9×13-Inch Baking Dish: This size accommodates layered ravioli and sauce perfectly, ensuring even cooking and preventing overflow.
Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Essential for browning your meat and simmering the marinara sauce with added seasonings.
Mixing Bowls: You’ll use a medium-sized bowl to mix the creamy cheese layer (typically ricotta, cream cheese, and seasoning).
Rubber Spatula or Wooden Spoon: These are ideal for stirring sauces and spreading the cheese mixture smoothly across layers.
Aluminum Foil: Crucial for the first half of baking to prevent over-browning the cheese before uncovering for the final golden finish.
Colander: If using frozen ravioli that require a quick boil, you’ll need this for easy draining.
Cheese Grater: For freshly shredded mozzarella or Parmesan, which melt better than pre-shredded varieties.

Preparation Tips

Thaw Frozen Ravioli (If Needed): Some frozen ravioli need a quick boil or partial thawing. Check package instructions to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Use Room-Temperature Cream Cheese: This ensures a smooth blend when mixing with ricotta or sour cream.
Pre-cook Meat Fully: Make sure the ground beef or sausage is cooked through and drained of excess grease before layering.
Layer Strategically: Begin with a bit of sauce to coat the dish bottom—this prevents sticking and adds moisture from the base up.
Cover Tightly for Moisture: During the first part of baking, keep the casserole covered to lock in steam, then uncover to let the cheese brown.
Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5–10 minutes after baking. It will firm up slightly and be easier to slice cleanly.

Ingredients for This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Every layer in this casserole plays a role in making it taste like a million bucks. Below is a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to achieve that luxurious, cheesy, hearty flavor:

1 (25 oz) bag of frozen cheese ravioli – The star of the dish. Choose a good quality brand for the best filling-to-pasta ratio.
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage) – Adds savory richness and meaty depth to the sauce layer.
1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce – Use your favorite store-bought brand or homemade for a more personal touch.
1 cup ricotta cheese – Provides a creamy, mild base for the “million dollar” cheese layer.
4 oz cream cheese, softened – Enhances the texture and adds indulgent creaminess.
1/4 cup sour cream – Adds tang and richness to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts into gooey, golden deliciousness on top.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For salty, nutty notes that enhance the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Brings the herbs you’d expect in a cozy casserole.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a gentle aromatic punch.
Salt and pepper to taste – Seasoning the meat and cheese layer is essential for flavor balance.
Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish) – Adds a touch of freshness and color to the finished dish.

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or sausage) until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease. Add the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes to meld the flavors, then remove from heat.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Cheese Layer

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, softened cream cheese, and sour cream. Stir until smooth and well blended. This will be your rich, “million dollar” creamy layer.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a bit of olive oil.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
Then, add half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer.
Spread half of the creamy cheese mixture over the ravioli.
Top with half of the remaining meat sauce.
Repeat the layers: ravioli, the rest of the cheese mixture, and the final portion of meat sauce.

Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the casserole. Finish with a light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This steams the ravioli and helps the flavors blend.

Step 7: Bake Uncovered for a Golden Finish

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and lightly golden.

Step 8: Cool and Garnish

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

Notes

Use Meat or Meatless: Ground beef, sausage, or even a meatless alternative all work well depending on your preference.
Ravioli Flavor Options: While cheese ravioli is classic, spinach-ricotta or even meat-filled ravioli offer unique twists.
Sauce Variations: Try using a tomato basil sauce, arrabbiata, or mix in a touch of Alfredo for a creamy tomato hybrid.
Double the Recipe: Make one for now and one for later—this dish freezes beautifully and is great for batch cooking.
Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce if you enjoy a little heat.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Simmer: Not letting the meat sauce simmer can result in a bland, underdeveloped flavor.
Using Cold Cream Cheese: This will create clumps in the creamy layer. Always soften it before mixing.
Overloading Layers: Avoid using too much sauce or cheese in one layer—it can make the dish soggy.
Not Covering with Foil Initially: Skipping this step can cause the cheese to overbrown or dry out before the inside is fully heated.
Undercooking Frozen Ravioli (if required): Some frozen ravioli need a quick parboil. Always check the label to avoid chewy pasta.
Forgetting to Grease the Dish: This simple step prevents sticking and makes for easier cleanup.
Serving Immediately from Oven: The filling needs a few minutes to settle, or you’ll end up with a soupy slice.
Overcrowding Layers: Layer evenly and don’t press down on the ravioli—this helps maintain texture and presentation.

What to Serve With Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?

This rich and hearty casserole pairs well with lighter sides or contrasting textures to balance the meal. Here are some fantastic accompaniments:

8 Recommendations

Garlic Breadsticks – Crunchy, buttery, and garlicky—they’re perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
Classic Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a fresh contrast to the cheesy casserole.
Steamed Broccoli – A simple, healthy side that adds color and nutrition without overwhelming flavors.
Caprese Salad – Tomato, basil, and mozzarella with balsamic glaze offer a cool, refreshing counterpoint.
Roasted Vegetables – Try carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for a sweet and savory addition.
Italian Antipasto Platter – Marinated olives, artichokes, and cured meats add variety and are great for guests.
Minestrone Soup – A light soup starter complements the casserole and makes the meal even more filling.
Red Wine or Sparkling Grape Juice – The acidity in red wine or the sparkle of juice pairs wonderfully with the creamy, cheesy layers.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerating:
Store leftover Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
To freeze, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly with two layers of foil. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed—adding 10–15 minutes to the bake time if it’s still chilled.

Reheating:
Reheat single servings in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or warm in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 15–20 minutes until heated through.

Estimated Nutrition

Serving size based on 8 portions.

Calories: ~480 kcal
Protein: 24g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 920mg
Calcium: 280mg

Note: Nutrition values may vary slightly depending on the brands of ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh ravioli works perfectly and may even reduce baking time slightly. Just ensure it’s not overcooked during the baking phase.

2. Is it necessary to cook the frozen ravioli first?

Most frozen ravioli can go straight into the casserole, but check the package. If it recommends boiling first, give it a quick parboil to avoid a chewy texture.

3. Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?

Absolutely. Cottage cheese offers a lighter, slightly tangier option and blends well with cream cheese and sour cream.

4. What’s the best way to freeze this casserole?

Assemble it fully but don’t bake. Wrap tightly with foil and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

5. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, just skip the meat or replace it with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute.

6. What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can omit it or replace it with a bit more sour cream or ricotta. The texture will be slightly less rich but still delicious.

7. How do I prevent it from becoming watery?

Drain meat well, don’t overuse sauce, and let the casserole rest after baking to help everything set.

8. Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can be sautéed and layered in with the sauce or cheese.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is more than just a quick meal—it’s a flavorful, comforting dish that turns everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. With layers of creamy cheese, savory sauce, and pillowy pasta, it’s a hit whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week. The best part? It’s versatile, easy to make, and always satisfies.