Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Experience the comforting flavors of Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, featuring layers of cheese ravioli, hearty meat sauce, and a creamy, cheesy topping. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a decadent weeknight dinner! It’s not only delicious but also versatile enough for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With its rich textures and flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite on your table.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Casserole
• How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
• Step 3: Combine the Cheese Mixture
• Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
• Step 5: Bake
• Step 6: Cool and Serve
• How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Pairing with Garlic Bread
• Fresh Salad Accompaniment
• Perfect Wine Pairing
• Adding Vegetables
• Comforting Side Dish
• Tasty Appetizer
• How to Perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Reheating Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use homemade ravioli?
• What can I substitute for ground beef?
• How do I make this dish vegetarian?
• Can I prepare this ahead of time?
• What side dishes go well with Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have this casserole ready with minimal effort.
• Deliciously Filling: The combination of cheese ravioli and meat sauce creates a hearty meal that satisfies even the hungriest appetites.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or switch up the cheeses to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Enjoy the delightful taste again as leftovers, which reheat beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smoother. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating that delicious Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• Nonstick cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning ground beef evenly without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Ensures thorough mixing of your cheese mixture for a creamy texture.
• Baking dish: Provides ample space for layering ingredients while baking.
• Aluminum foil: Helps retain moisture during baking, promoting even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 1 (25-ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 (28-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese, divided

How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled.
2. Drain any excess grease.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Combine the Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Mix the softened cream cheese, sour cream, half of the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt until smooth.
2. Gently fold in the frozen ravioli to ensure each piece is evenly coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the ravioli and cheese mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Pour the meat sauce over the ravioli layer.
Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving to help set the layers. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole!

How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a delightful dish that lends itself to a variety of serving options. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a casual meal, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Pairing with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a classic Italian touch. The crispy exterior complements the creamy casserole beautifully.

Fresh Salad Accompaniment

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing contrast. Toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, croutons, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Perfect Wine Pairing

• Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Merlot works well. These wines enhance the rich flavors of the meat sauce and cheese.

Adding Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli can balance the richness of the casserole. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt for flavor.

Comforting Side Dish

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs perfectly with this hearty casserole. Add garlic or cheese for extra flavor.

Tasty Appetizer

• Bruschetta: Start your meal with bruschetta topped with tomatoes and basil. The fresh taste prepares your palate for the main dish.

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How to Perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

To achieve the best results with your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Frozen Ravioli: Frozen cheese ravioli cooks perfectly in this dish, maintaining its texture and flavor throughout baking.

• Soften Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. This ensures a smooth and creamy mixture without lumps.

• Layer Ingredients Carefully: Layering ravioli, sauce, and cheese evenly helps each ingredient meld together beautifully during baking.

• Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps set the layers for easier slicing and serving.

• Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique flavor profile in your casserole.

Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Complement your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole with these delicious side dishes that elevate your meal.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots tossed in garlic and herbs add a flavorful touch to your table.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned roasted asparagus adds a healthy crunch alongside the rich casserole.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light and refreshing side.
4. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles sautéed lightly in olive oil serve as a great alternative to traditional pasta.
5. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables provides variety and color to your meal.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob adds a nice burst of sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors in your casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using the wrong ravioli: Always use cheese ravioli for the best flavor. Other varieties may alter the dish’s intended taste.
• Skipping the meat sauce: Neglecting to prepare a hearty meat sauce leads to a dry casserole. Always cook the ground beef and mix with marinara for moisture.
• Not letting it cool: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can make it messy. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes to set before serving.
• Overbaking: Baking for too long can dry out the cheese. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to achieve that perfect bubbly top.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in bland flavors. Use garlic powder and Italian seasoning generously for depth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• The casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole that may help you prepare this delightful dish.

Can I use homemade ravioli?

Yes, homemade ravioli works well, but ensure they are cooked slightly less than usual before adding them to the casserole.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can replace ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter version of Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, omit meat and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to enhance flavor and texture.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

What side dishes go well with Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?

Garlic bread or a fresh green salad pairs perfectly with this hearty main dish.

Final Thoughts

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different proteins or veggies according to your taste. This comforting meal is perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. Give it a try and enjoy!