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 easy-to-make dish is perfect for a decadent weeknight dinner or any special occasion. It’s not just delicious; it’s also a great way to bring family and friends around the table for a satisfying meal.

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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
• For Garnish
• 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
• Family Style
• Individual Portions
• With a Side Salad
• Garlic Bread
• Wine Pairing
• How to Perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Reheating Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?
• Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
• How do I customize Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?
• Is Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole suitable for meal prep?
• Can I make this dish vegetarian?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Layered Flavors: The combination of cheese ravioli, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or potlucks, everyone will love digging into this comforting casserole.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and simply bake when ready to serve.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite proteins or veggies to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking simpler. Here are some essentials you’ll need to whip up your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick cooking spray
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick cooking spray: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup after baking.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning ground beef evenly without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without spills.

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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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 mixing bowl:
1. Mix together 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 evenly 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 and bake for 30 minutes. After that, 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 about 10 minutes before serving to help the layers set. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Serving Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is an enjoyable experience that can be tailored to suit any occasion. This savory dish not only satisfies hunger but also brings comfort and warmth to the table. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a cozy, family-style meal where everyone can help themselves.

Individual Portions

• For a more elegant presentation, scoop out individual servings and place them on plates. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.

With a Side Salad

• Pair the casserole with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread on the side, perfect for scooping up cheesy bits of casserole.

Wine Pairing

• Suggest serving with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, which complements the flavors of the meat sauce beautifully.

How to Perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

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

• Use Quality Ingredients: Invest in good-quality marinara sauce and cheese for enhanced flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Meat: Cook ground beef until just browned to keep it tender.
• Layer Carefully: Ensure even layers of ravioli and sauce for balanced bites throughout.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest after baking; this helps it set and makes serving easier.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach or mushrooms into the meat sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

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Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

A well-rounded meal includes tasty side dishes that complement your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, perfect for soaking up every bit of sauce.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing adds a refreshing crunch.
3. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious balance to this hearty dish.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Roasted until crispy, these add a delightful flavor contrast.
5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze brighten up your plate.
6. Antipasto Platter
   A variety of cured meats, cheeses, and olives make for an enticing appetizer before diving into the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole even more delicious. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Greasing Step: Not greasing your baking dish can cause the casserole to stick. Always use nonstick spray or oil to prevent this.
• Overcooking the Meat: Cooking the meat too long can make it dry. Brown it just until cooked through, then combine with the sauce.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream cheese can create lumps in your mixture. Make sure it’s softened to ensure a smooth blend.
• Not Letting It Rest: Cutting into the casserole right away may cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes for better slicing.
• Ignoring Layering: Improper layering can lead to uneven cooking. Follow the assembly instructions carefully for balanced flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The casserole will last in the fridge for about 3-5 days.

Freezing Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist, stirring frequently until heated.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a layered dish made with cheese ravioli, meat sauce, and creamy toppings that offers comfort and flavor.

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh ravioli; however, cooking times may vary slightly. Keep an eye on it during baking.

How do I customize Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or substitute ground beef with turkey or sausage for different flavors.

Is Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole stores well and reheats easily, making it perfect for meal prep.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables or plant-based meat alternatives.

Final Thoughts

The Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust it based on dietary needs. Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!