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 dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it a standout choice for families and guests alike.

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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
• Pair with Garlic Bread
• Fresh Salad
• Wine Suggestions
• Topping Ideas
• Extra Cheese
• Sautéed Vegetables
• How to Perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Reheating Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?
• Can I customize my Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?
• How long does it take to make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?
• Is Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole freezer-friendly?
• Can I use homemade ravioli for this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole comes together quickly.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of cheese ravioli, savory meat sauce, and creamy toppings creates a delightful flavor experience.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults, making it an ideal meal for family dinners.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and bake it later, saving time on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for layering your casserole evenly while ensuring even cooking.
• Large skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef and combining the meat sauce effortlessly.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for easily mixing your cheese filling without making a mess.
• Aluminum foil: Helps retain moisture during baking, ensuring your casserole stays deliciously tender.

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 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 until each piece is coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

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

Step 5: Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil:
1. Bake for 30 minutes.
2. 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 10 minutes before serving to help set the layers. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve crispy, buttery garlic bread on the side for a perfect complement to the rich flavors of the casserole.

Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch, balancing the creamy texture of the casserole.

Wine Suggestions

• Red Wine: Pair with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Merlot to elevate the flavors of your meal.

Topping Ideas

• Fresh Basil: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for a burst of color and flavor before serving.

Extra Cheese

• Mozzarella Sprinkles: Add an extra layer of mozzarella cheese on top just before baking for an even cheesier delight.

Sautéed Vegetables

• Sautéed Spinach: A side of sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic pairs beautifully with the casserole and adds nutritional value.

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How to Perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

To ensure your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality marinara sauce and fresh cheeses for the best flavor.
• Layer Evenly: Make sure to distribute layers evenly so each bite is balanced with ravioli, meat sauce, and cheese.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers into the meat sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking; this helps set the layers nicely.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your meat sauce before assembling; adjust seasoning as needed for a more flavorful dish.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Serving Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole can be enhanced by pairing it with delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting addition.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy contrast to the richness of the casserole.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil offers a low-carb option that complements hearty dishes well.
5. Roasted Asparagus: Oven-roasted asparagus seasoned with lemon brings brightness alongside your main dish.
6. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cured meats, and cheeses can serve as an enticing appetizer before diving into dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final dish.

• Using thawed ravioli: Always use frozen cheese ravioli to ensure the layers stay intact and the texture is just right.
• Overcooking the meat: Cook the ground beef until browned but avoid overcooking, which can lead to a dry texture in your casserole.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking helps set the layers, making it easier to serve.
• Not greasing the dish: Failing to grease your baking dish can result in sticking, making it difficult to serve clean portions.
• Ignoring cheese measurements: Stick to the recommended amounts of cheese for optimal flavor and gooeyness; adding too much can make it overly rich.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

• To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It will last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes until heated through.
• Stovetop: For individual servings, place a portion in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a comforting dish featuring layers of cheese ravioli, meat sauce, and creamy cheese topping that’s perfect for family dinners.

Can I customize my Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or substitute different cheeses based on your taste preferences.

How long does it take to make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?

The total time is about one hour, including 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking.

Is Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes well for up to 2-3 months. Just ensure you store it properly!

Can I use homemade ravioli for this recipe?

Yes! If you have homemade ravioli, feel free to use it instead of frozen options for a fresher taste.

Final Thoughts

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is an indulgent yet easy dish that brings comfort food to new heights. With its cheese-rich layers and hearty meat sauce, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or extra veggies!