Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a decadent, crowd-pleasing dish that combines creamy cheeses, savory marinara sauce, and hearty ravioli. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort. The name “Million Dollar” comes from the luxurious, indulgent flavors packed into every bite. Let’s dive into the details of this comforting and irresistible casserole.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or sausage)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Flavor:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce
- Stir the marinara sauce into the cooked ground beef.
- Add dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella.
- Stir until creamy and well blended.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce.
- Spread half of the cheese mixture evenly over the ravioli.
- Add another layer of ravioli and top it with the remaining cheese mixture.
- Pour the remaining meat sauce on top, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the casserole.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole with:
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette for dipping.
- Mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a wholesome side.
Tips & Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a kick of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes if chilled.
- Freezer-Friendly: Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy Layers: The cheese mixture and meat sauce create irresistible flavors.
- Easy to Customize: Adjust the ingredients to your family’s preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a potluck, this dish never disappoints.
- Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Ideal for meal prepping or saving for later.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a show-stopping dish with minimal effort. Its luxurious blend of tender ravioli, creamy cheeses, and savory meat sauce makes it a family favorite. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this casserole will wow your guests and keep everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy this decadent recipe with those you love, and savor every bite!