Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Introduction

When it comes to family meals, I’m always on the lookout for dishes that are not only delicious but also quick to prepare. Recently, I stumbled upon a recipe for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, and it has quickly become a household favorite. The creamy cheese, savory ground beef, and the comforting layers of ravioli create a dish that is as satisfying as it is easy to make. My family couldn’t get enough of it, and it’s now on our regular rotation. If you’re looking for a hearty meal that will impress both kids and adults alike, this casserole is a must-try!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
• 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
• 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Ground Beef:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat if needed, then add the marinara sauce. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Prepare Creamy Cheese Mixture:
   In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta (or cottage cheese), sour cream, 1 cup mozzarella, and Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth.
4. Layer the Casserole:
   In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Arrange half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. Spread the creamy cheese mixture over the ravioli. Top with half of the remaining meat sauce. Add the rest of the frozen ravioli in a layer, then top with the remaining meat sauce.
5. Add Cheese Topping:
   Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Bake:
   Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   Let the casserole sit for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm directly from the baking dish.
• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Offer garlic bread or breadsticks on the side for extra satisfaction.
• Use a large spoon to dish out portions for easy serving.
• Garnish each serving with additional parsley or grated cheese, if desired.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: If possible, opt for fresh marinara sauce for an enhanced flavor.
2. Customize Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheeses, such as provolone or gouda, for a unique twist.
3. Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with sautéed vegetables or a meat alternative.
4. Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled in advance and baked later for convenience.
5. Check for Doneness: Ensure the casserole is heated through and the cheese is bubbly for the best results.

Recipe Variations

• Meat Lover’s Ravioli Casserole: Add cooked sausage or pepperoni for an extra protein boost.
• Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli: Use spinach-filled ravioli and incorporate sautéed spinach in the cheese mixture for added nutrients.
• Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a kick of heat.
• Cheesy Pesto Ravioli: Replace marinara with pesto for a different flavor profile.
• Mushroom Delight: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the meat mixture for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp Caesar salad or a mixed green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Pair with a nice red wine or sparkling water for a refreshing beverage.
• Consider a fruit-based dessert, like a berry crumble, to end the meal on a sweet note.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
   Yes, fresh ravioli can be used; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Is there a gluten-free option?
   Yes, you can use gluten-free ravioli and ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with mushrooms, lentils, or a meat substitute.
4. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Can I add vegetables?
   Yes, consider adding vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for more nutrition.
6. What type of marinara sauce should I use?
   A jarred marinara sauce works well, but homemade sauce can enhance the flavor.
7. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat sauce.
8. Can this be made in a slow cooker?
   Yes, layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
9. Is there a way to reduce calories?
   Use lean ground beef, low-fat cheese, and reduce the amount of sour cream.
10. What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?
    Reheat in the oven for even heat distribution, or in the microwave in individual portions.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. It’s simple to prepare, filled with creamy goodness, and sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends for dinner, this casserole is versatile enough to adapt to various dietary preferences and tastes. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s no wonder this dish has found a permanent place in our weekly meal plan. Try it out, and you might just find it becoming a staple in your kitchen too!

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