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Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

This layered casserole transforms frozen ravioli into a restaurant-worthy dish by combining it with seasoned meat sauce and three types of cheese. Ready in about an hour.

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Updated on Fri, 03 Jan 2025 01:26:10 GMT
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A baking dish filled with ravioli topped with melted cheese, ground meat, and garnished with parsley in a tomato sauce. Save it
A baking dish filled with ravioli topped with melted cheese, ground meat, and garnished with parsley in a tomato sauce. | myhomemaderecipe.com

Get ready to discover my Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole! I've perfected this recipe over countless family dinners and it truly lives up to its name. With layers of tender ravioli hearty meat sauce and the most incredible creamy cheese blend it's pure comfort food magic in every bite.

The Million Dollar Magic

This dish has become my secret weapon for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Using convenient ingredients like frozen ravioli and jarred marinara means I can create something that tastes totally gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. The way those layers come together is absolutely divine.

Your Treasure Chest of Ingredients

  • Frozen Cheese Ravioli: 1 package (about 20 oz), thawed if frozen, to save prep time and add cheesy goodness.
  • Ground Beef: 1 lb, browned for a hearty, meaty base. Use lean beef to reduce excess grease.
  • Marinara Sauce: 2 cups of your favorite brand, bringing rich, tomatoey depth.
  • Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened, for a creamy and tangy filling.
  • Sour Cream: 1/2 cup, adding a smooth texture and subtle tanginess.
  • Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated, for a nutty and salty kick.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded, for that golden, bubbly crust.
  • Garlic Powder and Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp each, enhancing the dish with classic Italian flavors.
  • Salt: To taste, bringing out the flavors in every layer.

Building Your Masterpiece

Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Stir in marinara sauce and set aside.
Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a bowl, blend cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until smooth.
Layer the Casserole
Spread half of the ravioli in the dish, followed by half the meat sauce, then a layer of the creamy mixture. Repeat layers and top with mozzarella cheese.
Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Keeping Your Gold

This casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge for about 3 days in an airtight container. If you're planning ahead you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight when you're ready to enjoy it again. I always reheat it in the oven to keep that cheese perfectly melty.

Creative Twists

I love experimenting with this recipe! Sometimes I'll use veggie crumbles instead of beef for my vegetarian friends or swap in different cheese blends. Adding a layer of sautéed spinach or mushrooms makes it even more special. A little pesto in the sauce takes it to a whole new level.

Secrets to Success

Make sure to thaw your ravioli first it makes such a difference in the final texture. I always grate my cheese fresh it melts so much better than pre-shredded. That covered baking time is crucial for keeping everything moist and letting it rest before serving helps those layers set perfectly.

A close-up of a baked dish featuring layers of meat, cheese, and ravioli topped with melted mozzarella and herbs. Save it
A close-up of a baked dish featuring layers of meat, cheese, and ravioli topped with melted mozzarella and herbs. | myhomemaderecipe.com

Perfect Pairings

We love serving this with a fresh Caesar salad and some crispy garlic bread on the side. For special occasions I'll add some roasted asparagus or zucchini. A nice glass of Chianti makes it feel extra special or try some sparkling Italian soda for a fun non-alcoholic option.

Worth Every Penny

This casserole truly earns its million dollar name! It's become my most requested recipe for both family dinners and potlucks. The combination of convenience and incredible flavor makes it absolutely priceless. Once you try it you'll understand why everyone falls in love with this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh ravioli can be used but may cook faster. Adjust baking time accordingly and watch for doneness.
→ Why let it rest before serving?
The 10-minute rest allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve neat portions.
→ Can I prepare this ahead?
Yes, assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate. Add extra baking time if cooking from cold.
→ Can I use different meat?
Ground turkey or Italian sausage can be substituted for the ground beef for different flavor profiles.
→ Why cover with foil initially?
Covering with foil prevents the cheese from browning too quickly while ensuring the ravioli cooks through completely.

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

A luxurious casserole combining frozen cheese ravioli with meat sauce and a rich, creamy cheese blend for an indulgent family dinner.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
45 Minutes
Total Time
60 Minutes
By: Zaho

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Italian American

Yield: 6 Servings (1 casserole)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

01 25 ounce package frozen cheese ravioli.
02 1 pound ground beef.
03 28 ounce jar marinara sauce.
04 8 ounces cream cheese, softened.
05 1 cup sour cream.
06 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
07 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
08 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
09 1/2 teaspoon salt.
10 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese, divided.

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat oven to 400°F. Spray 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

Step 02

Brown ground beef, drain. Stir in marinara sauce.

Step 03

Combine cream cheese, sour cream, half the Parmesan, and seasonings. Fold in frozen ravioli.

Step 04

Layer ravioli mixture in dish, top with meat sauce, remaining Parmesan and mozzarella.

Step 05

Cover with foil, bake 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 15 minutes more until bubbly.

Step 06

Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  1. Can be assembled ahead.
  2. Rest before serving for clean slices.
  3. Can use different ground meats.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Large skillet.
  • Mixing bowl.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (cream cheese, sour cream, cheeses).
  • Wheat (pasta).
  • Eggs (in pasta).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 650
  • Total Fat: 35 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 45 g
  • Protein: 32 g