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Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
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Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful one-dish Italian-inspired comfort meal. It layers tender frozen cheese ravioli with a rich ricotta-based sauce, marinara, and a blend of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, baked to bubbly perfection with a golden crust. This easy casserole is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, and customizable to fit dietary preferences such as vegetarian or gluten-free.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 package frozen cheese ravioli (about 9–12 oz)
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes and Add-ins

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Cooked Italian sausage or ground beef (for meat lovers’ version)
  • Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers (for vegetarian upgrade)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce (for a spicy kick)
  • Alternative cheeses like provolone, fontina, or gouda (for cheese variation)
  • Gluten-free ravioli and compatible marinara (for gluten-free version)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a casserole dish to prevent sticking. This ensures even baking and a crispy cheese topping.
  2. Layer the Ravioli: Spread a single layer of frozen cheese ravioli evenly in the bottom of the casserole dish. No need to thaw; they will cook fully in the oven with the sauce.
  3. Mix the Cheesy Sauce: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, half of the grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth and creamy.
  4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour and spread half of the marinara sauce evenly over the ravioli layer. Dollop and spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture on top. Repeat with another layer of ravioli, remaining marinara sauce, and the rest of the cheese mixture.
  5. Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top. Cover the casserole loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to set and make serving easier. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use good-quality frozen or fresh cheese ravioli for best texture and flavor.
  • Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it set and flavors meld.
  • Keep the casserole covered during baking to prevent drying out and protect the cheese crust.
  • Adjust mozzarella and Parmesan amounts to control cheesiness and sharpness.
  • Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate for convenient make-ahead meals.

Nutrition

Keywords: ravioli casserole, million dollar ravioli, cheesy casserole, comfort food, baked ravioli, easy dinner recipe, Italian casserole, family-friendly dinner

Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/million-dollar-ravioli-casserole/