Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, rich, and decadent dish that’ll have your taste buds dancing, look no further than this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. With layers of cheese, meat, and pasta, this baked casserole is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. It’s not just any casserole—it’s loaded with a combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty meat sauce, all wrapped around delicious ravioli. Keep reading to discover how to make this mouthwatering dish, perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion!

What is a Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?

A Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a luxurious, layered baked dish made with store-bought or homemade ravioli, a rich and flavorful meat sauce, and a creamy cheese filling. It’s called “Million Dollar” because of the indulgent ingredients that give it a velvety texture and rich flavor, reminiscent of something you’d find at a high-end restaurant. Whether you're cooking for a dinner party or making something extra special for your family, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients List for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to assemble this mouthwatering dish:

1. Frozen or Fresh Ravioli (cheese or meat-filled) – 24 oz
   This will be the star of your casserole. Cheese ravioli works well, but you can also choose meat-filled ravioli for a heartier option.
2. Ground Beef or Italian Sausage – 1 lb
   This adds a meaty richness to the casserole. You can use a mixture of both if desired for a more complex flavor profile.
3. Marinara Sauce or Meat Sauce – 2 cups
   Choose your favorite brand of marinara sauce, or use a homemade version for a personal touch.
4. Cream Cheese – 8 oz, softened
   The secret to the casserole’s creamy, indulgent texture. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
5. Ricotta Cheese – 1 cup
   Adds another layer of creaminess and lightness to balance the heavy flavors of the sauce and meat.
6. Sour Cream – 1 cup
   This is what makes the casserole truly "million-dollar." Sour cream adds richness and tang to the cheese mixture.
7. Mozzarella Cheese – 2 cups, shredded
   This cheese gives the casserole its cheesy pull. Opt for fresh mozzarella for an extra gooey texture.
8. Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup, grated
   Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
9. Egg – 1 large
   The egg helps bind the ricotta mixture, giving it structure in the casserole.
10. Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
    Adds a robust flavor to the meat sauce, enhancing the overall taste.
11. Onion – 1 small, diced
    Sautéed with the meat for an extra layer of flavor.
12. Italian Seasoning – 2 tsp
    A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme that will season the meat sauce perfectly.
13. Olive Oil – 1 tbsp
    Used to sauté the garlic and onion with the ground meat.
14. Salt and Pepper – to taste
    Essential for balancing the flavors.

Substitutions and Variations

While the classic Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is undeniably delicious, you can easily tailor the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some substitution ideas:

• Ravioli: Swap cheese ravioli for spinach and cheese ravioli for a veggie-forward version, or use gluten-free ravioli to accommodate dietary needs.
• Meat: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option, or skip the meat entirely to make a vegetarian version. Simply amp up the flavor with mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
• Cheese: Swap ricotta for cottage cheese if you're looking for a lighter option. You could also add gouda or fontina for a smokier, richer flavor.
• Sauce: Replace marinara with Alfredo sauce for a creamier, more indulgent casserole. For a spicier kick, try adding a bit of arrabbiata sauce.
• Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as red pepper flakes for heat or fresh basil for a more vibrant, fresh flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this delicious dish. Follow these steps to create the perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly once it goes in.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Add your ground beef or sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add the Marinara

Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked meat and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer on low heat while you prepare the cheese mixture.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, sour cream, egg, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until fully blended and smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Then, add half of the frozen or fresh ravioli in a single layer. Spoon half of the cheese mixture over the ravioli, spreading it evenly. Top with half of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat the layers: the rest of the ravioli, followed by the cheese mixture, and then the remaining meat sauce.

Step 6: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a cheesy, golden crust as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Let It Rest

Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the layers to set and make it easier to slice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Ravioli: There’s no need to pre-cook frozen ravioli before assembling the casserole. Cooking them beforehand could lead to overcooked, mushy pasta.
• Skipping the Drain: If you’re using ground meat, make sure to drain any excess fat before adding the marinara sauce. Too much grease can make the casserole oily.
• Not Covering the Casserole: Baking the casserole covered for the first part of cooking ensures the cheese doesn’t burn before the dish is fully heated through.
• Undersalting the Cheese Mixture: Don’t forget to season your cheese layer. It adds a lot of flavor to the casserole, and an under-seasoned layer can make the dish feel bland.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a showstopper in itself, but a few presentation tips can make it look even more appealing on the dinner table:

How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Serve the casserole hot, straight from the oven, with a large serving spoon for easy scooping. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. A glass of red wine, like a nice Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs perfectly with the robust flavors of the casserole.

Presentation Ideas for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve it in a colorful, oven-to-table baking dish for an eye-catching presentation.
• For a fancier touch, you can serve individual portions in ramekins or small baking dishes.

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just increase the covered baking time by about 10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes beautifully! Assemble it, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Cheese Lovers: If you’re a fan of extra cheesy casseroles, don’t be shy—add an extra ½ cup of mozzarella to the top layer for an even gooier finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh ravioli will work just as well. You won’t need to adjust the cooking time much, as the sauce and cheese layers will still require the same baking time.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the meat and add vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to make a hearty vegetarian version.

How long does this casserole last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it should last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Store individual portions in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Conclusion

This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its layers of cheesy, meaty goodness, it’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in or to impress your guests. Plus, it’s easy to customize to your preferences and dietary needs. Give it a try, and you'll see why it's worth every penny—or bite!

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