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Welcome, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to win hearts around your dinner table—Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a special dinner for the weekend, this luxurious baked ravioli casserole, with its rich creamy meat sauce and layers of cheesy goodness, will make everyone feel like a million bucks! So, let’s get ready to bring an irresistible combination of flavors to your kitchen with this indulgent recipe.

Introduction

The Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a fantastic twist on traditional baked pasta dishes, bringing together Italian-inspired flavors and a luxurious layer of creaminess that truly feels indulgent. What makes this dish stand out is the combination of cheese ravioli, ricotta, mozzarella, and a savory meat sauce that transforms a simple casserole into a rich and creamy masterpiece. This recipe is easy to make, perfect for feeding a family, and an excellent choice when you’re craving comfort food with a gourmet twist. If you’re a fan of Italian classics like lasagna or baked ziti, this ravioli casserole will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

To create this show-stopping meal, you’ll need the following ingredients, along with some optional garnishes that can enhance its visual and flavor appeal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef – You can substitute with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce – Opt for your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own for a fresh, homemade taste.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – A rich and creamy layer that elevates this casserole.
• 1 large egg – Adds structure to the ricotta cheese layer.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melted cheesy goodness throughout the casserole.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Provides a sharp, savory flavor.
• 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli – Store-bought cheese ravioli makes this dish quick and easy.
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional) – Adds a fresh and vibrant touch.

Optional Substitutions:

• Swap out ricotta for cottage cheese if you prefer a lower-fat option.
• If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free ravioli to make this meal suitable for dietary restrictions.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use sautéed mushrooms or a veggie meat alternative.

How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole – Step by Step

Making this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole couldn’t be easier. Let’s walk through the process step by step, with some helpful tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and achieves that golden, bubbly finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Once cooked, drain any excess fat. Then, stir in 1 jar of marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This forms the savory base for your casserole.

Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Cheese

In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese and 1 egg, stirring until smooth. This will be spread over the ravioli layers to create that creamy, “million-dollar” texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the prepared meat sauce at the bottom. This prevents the ravioli from sticking and ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Then, layer half of the frozen cheese ravioli over the sauce.

Step 5: Add the Ricotta Layer

Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the ravioli. This creamy layer is what takes this casserole to the next level of indulgence.

Step 6: Sprinkle Cheese

Next, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over the ricotta layer. This combination of cheeses adds a rich, savory depth to the dish.

Step 7: Repeat the Layers

Repeat the process with the remaining ravioli, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and cheese. Finish the casserole by topping it with an additional 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup of Parmesan.

Step 8: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is baked to perfection, garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this luxurious meal with your family and friends.

Helpful Tips for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole comes out perfectly every time:

• Use Frozen Ravioli: There’s no need to thaw the ravioli before layering. Frozen ravioli works great and saves time!
• Customize Your Sauce: You can use any type of marinara sauce, but if you want to add more flavor, try a roasted garlic or tomato-basil variety.
• Don’t Skip the Ricotta-Egg Mixture: The egg helps the ricotta set, giving the casserole a creamy, stable layer.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like gouda or provolone, to change the flavor profile.

Cooking Tips for the Best Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

To get the absolute best out of your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, here are some techniques and hacks:

• Sauté Your Meat for Extra Flavor: Before adding the marinara sauce, you can season the ground beef with garlic, onions, or Italian seasoning for added depth of flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This makes it easier to cut and serve.
• Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: If you want a rustic presentation, bake the casserole in a large cast-iron skillet. It retains heat well and gives the dish a beautifully browned crust.

Serving Suggestions for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

This indulgent casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes and beverages:

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a perfect companion to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Red Wine: For a complete Italian-inspired dinner, pair the casserole with a glass of Chianti or a robust red wine.
• Sparkling Water: If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon is refreshing alongside this dish.

Nutritional Information

This dish is definitely indulgent, but it’s packed with protein and essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value per serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 550
• Total Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 1000mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 36g

Storage and Leftovers for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how you can store and enjoy your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole later.

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes, or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

1. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh ravioli works well in this recipe, though you may need to reduce the baking time slightly since fresh pasta cooks faster.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap out the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a plant-based meat alternative to make a vegetarian version.

4. What’s the best way to prevent the casserole from drying out?

Covering the casserole with foil during the first half of baking helps to retain moisture and prevent the top from drying out. Also, be sure to use enough sauce so that each layer stays moist.

Related Recipes for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Lovers

Looking for more indulgent Italian-inspired recipes? Check out these:

1. Forgotten Chicken Bake with Golden Rice – Easy Recipe

2. Slow Cooker Baked Ziti Recipe – Easy, Cheesy & Delicious

Conclusion

We hope you’re excited to try this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole at home! With its rich layers of meat sauce, ravioli, and cheese, it’s truly a dish worthy of any special occasion—or just a cozy night in. Don’t forget to share your experience, and let us know if you added your own personal twist! Happy cooking, and may your meals always be delicious!

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