If you’re craving something that feels like a warm, comforting hug in a dish, you need to try this Hearty Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe. It’s a luxurious blend of cheesy, meaty, and saucy layers that come together to create a family-friendly meal bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to spoil yourself with a rich, satisfying dinner, this casserole makes every bite memorable and downright irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is surprisingly simple but packs a punch with every ingredient adding its own special touch. From the velvety cheeses to the savory meat sauce and satisfying tender ravioli, each component plays a crucial role in delivering an unforgettable taste and texture.
- Non-stick cooking spray or olive oil for greasing the dish: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup, so your casserole comes out perfectly intact.
- 1 (20-ounce) package fresh cheese ravioli (or 24-ounce frozen ravioli): The star base that brings pillowy, cheesy goodness to every layer.
- 1 (40-ounce) jar marinara sauce, divided: Provides that rich, tomatoey depth that keeps the entire casserole moist and flavorful.
- 1 lb 90% lean ground beef: Adds hearty protein and grounds the dish with classic, savory meatiness.
- ½ lb mild Italian sausage, casings removed: Infuses a subtle spice and extra flavor complexity that elevates the meat sauce.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Gives the cheese layer a luscious, creamy texture that melts beautifully.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Lightens the cheese layer with a smooth, slightly tangy richness.
- ¼ cup sour cream: Adds a touch of tanginess to balance the cheeses and enhance creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the savory notes without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings fragrant herbs that remind you of a cozy Italian kitchen.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Elevates all the flavors just right.
- 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stringy perfection on top.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkles sharp, nutty finish over the casserole for extra depth.
How to Make Hearty Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready when you assemble the casserole. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or olive oil to ensure your masterpiece doesn’t stick and can slide right out onto your plate.
Step 2: Toss the Ravioli
In a medium bowl, gently toss the fresh or frozen ravioli with 1 cup of the marinara sauce. This step primes the ravioli by coating each piece with flavorful sauce, keeping them from drying out in the oven and marrying textures and tastes early on.
Step 3: Cook the Meat
Brown your ground beef and mild Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir as it cooks to break up the meat into small, flavorful crumbles. Once fully cooked around 10–12 minutes, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 4: Combine Meat with Sauce
Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce into the pan with the cooked meats and stir until everything is evenly coated. This rich meat sauce will be one of the layers that add depth and substance to your Hearty Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe.
Step 5: Mix the Creamy Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, blend together softened cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt until smooth. This creamy mixture adds a luscious, dreamy layer full of flavor and softness that contrasts beautifully with the meat and pasta.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Begin by spreading the remaining marinara sauce over the bottom of the greased baking dish. Next, lay down one-third of the ravioli over this sauce base. Spread half of the creamy cheese mixture evenly on top, then add the remaining ravioli. Pour the meat sauce over everything, making sure to distribute it evenly.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese liberally over the top of the casserole. Cover the dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. For that beautiful browned crust, you can broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes once it’s out of the oven. This step lets the layers set up a bit so you can serve perfect, steaming slices without it falling apart.
How to Serve Hearty Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh torn basil or a sprinkle of chopped parsley brightens the colors and adds a lovely herbal note that complements the rich flavors. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a handful of toasted pine nuts can also add a subtle, delicious crunch.
Side Dishes
This casserole is substantial, so sides like a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables work beautifully to balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm breadsticks are perfect for mopping up extra sauce, making your meal extra indulgent and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try preparing individual ramekins with the layered ravioli casserole for personal servings that feel extra special. Or, turn it into a potluck winner by baking in a slow cooker to keep it warm for hours while entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, let any leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
You can freeze the entire casserole before baking or after it’s baked and fully cooled. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen casseroles can keep well for up to 3 months without losing much flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw if frozen and warm in a 350°F oven covered with foil until heated through—usually about 20–30 minutes. For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5–10 minutes of reheating.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought ravioli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh or frozen ravioli both work well here, so feel free to pick your favorite. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly if your ravioli is thicker or thinner.
Is this casserole spicy?
No, it’s mild and comforting, thanks to the mild Italian sausage and balanced Italian seasoning, making it perfect for all palates including kids.
Can I substitute the cheeses?
Yes, you can try using cottage cheese instead of ricotta or swap mozzarella for provolone depending on your taste preferences. Keep in mind the texture and meltability might change a bit.
How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?
Leftovers are best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days to ensure freshness and the best flavor. Always store in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the meat and double the cheese and marinara layers or add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or your favorite veggies for extra heartiness without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about digging into a warm, cheesy, and meaty casserole that feels like a special occasion every time. This Hearty Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that you’ll keep coming back to for family dinners or when you need a delicious pick-me-up. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a treasured favorite in your recipe box. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Hearty Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Hearty Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a comforting and flavorful baked pasta dish featuring layers of tender ravioli, creamy cheeses, savory meat sauce, and a golden mozzarella and Parmesan topping. Perfect for family dinners, it combines easy-to-make components into a rich and satisfying casserole that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Non-stick cooking spray or olive oil for greasing the dish
- 1 (20-ounce) package fresh cheese ravioli (or 24-ounce frozen ravioli)
- 1 (40-ounce) jar marinara sauce, divided
- 1 lb 90% lean ground beef
- ½ lb mild Italian sausage, casings removed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Toss Ravioli with Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the fresh or frozen ravioli with 1 cup of marinara sauce, coating the ravioli well. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Cook Meat: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and mild Italian sausage, cooking until browned and fully cooked through, approximately 10–12 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Add Marinara to Meat: Stir 2 cups of marinara sauce into the cooked meat mixture, blending well. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
- Layer Sauce in Baking Dish: Spread the remaining marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add First Ravioli Layer: Arrange one-third of the sauced ravioli over the marinara base in the baking dish.
- Spread Cheese Mixture: Evenly spread the creamy cheese mixture over the first ravioli layer.
- Add Remaining Ravioli: Layer the remaining ravioli on top of the cheese spread, completing the ravioli layers.
- Top with Meat Sauce: Pour the prepared meat and marinara sauce evenly over the top of the final ravioli layer.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the entire casserole to create a delicious cheesy crust.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to heat thoroughly and meld flavors.
- Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly. For an extra browned top, optionally broil for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set and makes it easier to cut and serve.
Notes
- You can use either fresh or frozen ravioli depending on availability. Adjust cooking times slightly if using frozen.
- For a spicier version, substitute mild Italian sausage for hot Italian sausage.
- Covering the dish while baking helps retain moisture and prevents the top from burning before the inside is heated through.
- Allowing the casserole to rest helps the layers set, making serving cleaner and easier.
- Optionally garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added color and flavor.
