Oh boy, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food – Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole! This dish has a little bit of everything: layers of cheesy goodness, savory meat sauce, and those delicious, pillowy ravioli that just melt in your mouth. I first stumbled upon this gem during a dinner party at a friend’s house, and I couldn’t believe how easy it was to whip up such a flavorful and hearty meal. The best part? It’s a total crowd-pleaser, and no one ever leaves the table unhappy!
I still remember the joyous moment when I took my first bite and felt like I was indulging in a five-star meal. The combination of the rich cheese and the tangy sauce still has me daydreaming about it from time to time! Not to mention, it’s the perfect way to feed a crowd or simply enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
What’s in Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this dish so special:
Ravioli: The star of the show! I love using cheese-filled ravioli for that creamy texture, but feel free to try beef or spinach for a twist. Frozen options work wonderfully and cut down prep time.
Ground Beef: This helps create a meaty base for the casserole. I usually opt for lean ground beef to keep it a tad healthier without compromising flavor.
Marinara Sauce: A robust marinara brings all the flavors together. I prefer using homemade or high-quality store-bought sauce for the best results – it really does make a difference!
Ricotta Cheese: This adds a creamy, luscious layer that balances the whole dish. Opt for whole milk ricotta for its rich taste.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Because can you ever have too much cheese? I like to use a combination of mozzarella and provolone for that melty, gooey texture.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan on top elevates the flavor—trust me, it’s worth it!
Italian Seasoning: This blend of dried herbs really ties everything together and adds that classic Italian flavor profile.
Egg: Used to bind the ricotta cheese, giving it a nice structured yet creamy texture.
Is Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Good for You?
This dish definitely has its indulgent moments, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make it a bit healthier!
Ravioli: I usually stick to whole grain varieties when I can, which packs in a little more fiber to help balance things out. Plus, it’s fun experimenting with different fillings!
Ground Beef: Using lean beef significantly reduces the fat content while still providing protein—helping you feel full longer.
Marinara Sauce: A homemade marinara filled with veggies can boost the nutritional value without losing that comforting appeal.
So while this casserole may not be a salad, it offers a fair balance of nutrients along with comfort. Just keep in mind that portion control is key!
Ingredients List
– 1 (25-ounce) package of frozen cheese ravioli
– 1 pound ground beef (or turkey, if you prefer)
– 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping!)
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 6-8 people, perfect for family gatherings or meal prepping!
How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and the egg until well combined.
5. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the ravioli on top, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, and then half of the remaining sauce.
6. Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli, ricotta mixture, and meat sauce.
7. Top it all off with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Allow to cool for a few minutes before digging in—if you can resist!
Delicious Variations & Tips
– **Switch It Up:** You can easily add veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms in between layers for added nutrition and flavor.
– **Meat Options:** Feel free to use cooked sausage or even shredded chicken for a change.
– **Make Ahead:** This casserole can be assembled a day ahead—just cover it tightly and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!
I honestly can’t wait for you to try this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole! It’s perfect for cozy evenings or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. I encourage you to put your unique spin on it and perhaps share how it turned out. Happy cooking!
