Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a hearty and indulgent dish that combines all the best elements of comfort food. With layers of cheese ravioli, savory ground beef, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy your cravings for a cheesy, meaty dinner. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Ingredients

1 package (25 ounces) frozen cheese ravioli
1 pound ground beef
1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the ravioli according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks, until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
Grease a 2-1/2-quart baking dish. In the baking dish, layer half of the cooked ravioli, ground beef, marinara sauce, Parmesan cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers.
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Uncover the casserole and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the marinara sauce for a little heat.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or ricotta for extra creaminess and flavor.
Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or oregano can be sprinkled on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or heat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes, covered with foil, until heated through.

10 FAQs

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen? Yes, fresh ravioli can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions before layering it in the casserole.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef for a lighter option.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
What if I don’t have marinara sauce? You can substitute marinara with any tomato-based pasta sauce, such as pizza sauce or a simple tomato sauce with added seasonings.
Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and follow the baking instructions.
What if I want to make it more cheesy? You can add more mozzarella cheese or a layer of ricotta cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole? Yes! Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, spinach, or zucchini to the layers for added nutrition.
Can I make this in a larger or smaller baking dish? Yes, you can adjust the recipe for a larger or smaller baking dish, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What is the best way to store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use other types of pasta like penne, rotini, or ziti if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for different pasta shapes.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich flavors of ravioli, ground beef, and melted cheese into a deliciously filling dish. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this casserole is easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Italian dishes or just love cheesy casseroles, this one is a keeper!