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This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole transforms everyday ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish that's become my ultimate comfort food solution for busy weeknights and special gatherings alike. The layers of tender ravioli, rich meat sauce, and three-cheese blend create a lasagna-like experience with half the effort.
This casserole earned its "million dollar" name the first time I served it at a family potluck where three people asked for the recipe before dinner was even over. Now it's requested at nearly every gathering.
Ingredients
- Ground beef provides the hearty base for the meat sauce consider using 85/15 for best flavor without excessive fat
- Onion and garlic create an aromatic foundation that elevates the jarred marinara
- Marinara sauce choose a good quality brand as it significantly impacts the final flavor
- Frozen or fresh cheese ravioli the star of the show that requires zero precooking
- Ricotta cheese adds a luxurious creamy layer look for whole milk version for richness
- Sour cream brings tanginess to balance the rich cheeses
- Cream cheese creates that velvety million dollar texture always use full fat
- Mozzarella cheese forms that irresistible stretchy top consider freshly grated for best melting
- Parmesan cheese adds nutty depth and crispy edges around the casserole
- Fresh parsley brightens the rich flavors and adds color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the meat sauce
- Brown the ground beef and onions over medium heat until no pink remains and the onions turn translucent about 5 to 7 minutes. The caramelization of the meat creates deep flavor so resist stirring too frequently. Add garlic during the final minute to prevent burning which would create bitterness.
- Create the creamy layer
- Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth before adding other ingredients to prevent lumps. Incorporate the ricotta, sour cream, egg, and seasonings until velvety. This mixture will be thick but spreadable. The egg helps bind everything together during baking.
- Layer strategically
- Start with a thin layer of meat sauce to prevent sticking. Arrange ravioli with slight overlap to create a solid base. Spread the ricotta mixture gently with an offset spatula to avoid disturbing the ravioli. Add meat sauce and cheese before repeating layers. The final cheese topping should be generous for that golden bubbly crust.
- Perfect the bake
- Cover with foil for the first 30 minutes to trap moisture and heat evenly. Removing the foil for the final 10 to 15 minutes allows the top to reach golden perfection. Let stand before serving so the layers can set which makes for cleaner slices.
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The secret to this casserole's incredible flavor is the three cheese blend in the ricotta mixture. My grandmother always said that good Italian cooking was about layering flavors, and this recipe proves her right every time I make it. The cream cheese particularly transforms this from a simple casserole to something truly special.
Make It Your Own
This casserole welcomes customization based on your family's preferences or what you have on hand. Swap the ground beef for Italian sausage for a more robust flavor profile, or use ground turkey for a lighter option. Vegetarians can substitute the meat with a hearty mixture of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. The marinara sauce can also be upgraded with a splash of red wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes for adults who enjoy a bit of heat.
Storage and Reheating
The casserole refrigerates beautifully for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For reheating individual portions, the microwave works well at 70% power to prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery. For larger portions, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. The texture actually improves after a day as the flavors meld together.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on its own, this casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp Caesar salad or simple arugula dressed with lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness. Garlic bread makes an excellent addition for soaking up extra sauce. For a complete Italian inspired meal, serve with a light antipasto platter beforehand featuring olives, marinated vegetables, and thinly sliced prosciutto.
Common Queries
- → Can I use different types of ravioli in this casserole?
Absolutely! While cheese ravioli is traditional, you can substitute with spinach, mushroom, or even meat-filled ravioli. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly depending on whether you use fresh or frozen ravioli.
- → How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and either replace it with a plant-based meat substitute or add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Use the same amount of marinara sauce for a delicious meatless alternative.
- → Can I assemble this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours before baking. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add about 10 minutes to the covered baking time since it will be starting cold.
- → What sides pair well with this ravioli casserole?
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, serve with a Caesar salad and some warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- → How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Individual portions can be microwaved for 1-2 minutes, though the texture is best when reheated in the oven.
- → Can this casserole be frozen?
This casserole freezes exceptionally well! You can freeze it either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.