Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is an incredibly delicious dish that’s perfect for families and gatherings. It combines everyone’s favorite cheese ravioli with creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella, all baked to perfection in a rich marinara sauce. This recipe is as comforting as it is simple, making it a go-to option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The harmonious blend of flavors and textures will leave your taste buds singing, and it’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 450
- Protein: 24 grams
- Carbohydrates: 42 grams
- Fat: 22 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Sugar: 6 grams
- Sodium: 720 mg
Why Make This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is more than just a simple pasta bake; it’s a crowd-pleaser packed with flavor and comfort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, wholesome family meals, or a potluck gathering. The combination of ingredients creates a luscious and satisfying dish that appeals to both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a great way to get some vegetables into your meal when you add a side salad or steamed veggies!
How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 package frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures your casserole cooks evenly and comes out perfectly bubbly and golden.
Step 2: Layering the Sauce
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. This creates a flavorful base for your layers.
Step 3: Adding Ravioli
Layer half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce. The ravioli will soak up all the lovely flavors as it bakes, making it extra delicious.
Step 4: Mixing
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This creamy filling adds richness and a herby kick. Spread this mixture evenly over the ravioli.
Step 5: Layering Again
Add the remaining ravioli on top of the ricotta mixture and cover this layer with the rest of the marinara sauce. Make sure to spread it out so every ravioli gets some sauce!
Step 6: Topping with Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top. This will create that golden, bubbly crust everyone loves!
Step 7: Baking
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. This helps the casserole to steam and cook through without drying out.
Step 8: Browning the Cheese
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make everyone excited for dinner.
Step 9: Garnishing
Garnish with fresh basil before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh taste that enhances the dish.
How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Serve this casserole hot, directly from the oven. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. For a fun twist, you can even serve it with a drizzle of pesto or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat.
How to Store Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions as needed.
Expert Tips for Perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
- If you like a bit of crunch, consider adding some panko breadcrumbs on top before the final baking stage.
- Feel free to customize the dish by adding cooked spinach, mushrooms, or ground meat for extra flavor and nutrients.
- For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cheese and marinara sauce.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Delight: Add layers of vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or roasted eggplant to enhance the texture and nutrition.
- Meaty Option: Brown some ground beef or Italian sausage and layer it in for a heartier meal.
- Spicy Twist: Mix in some red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes! If using fresh ravioli, reduce the baking time slightly, checking for doneness earlier. -
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute the frozen ravioli with gluten-free pasta options or zucchini noodles. -
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. -
Is it ok to use store-bought marinara sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite store-bought marinara for convenience. -
What can I do if I don’t have ricotta?
You can substitute with cottage cheese or a blend of cream cheese and sour cream for a similar texture.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is truly a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Its ease of preparation and delightful flavors make it a recipe worth trying. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this casserole will undoubtedly impress your loved ones and leave them wanting more. So gather your ingredients and give this delicious recipe a go; it might just become a cherished favorite in your home!
