Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Craving something indulgent, cheesy, and downright comforting? This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner that feels like a million bucks but is incredibly easy to make. With layers of cheese ravioli, a rich tomato sauce, creamy cheese filling, and plenty of gooey mozzarella, this baked casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you just need a hearty, feel-good meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesy and Hearty – Every bite is packed with melty cheese and saucy pasta goodness.
Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike.
Quick to Assemble – Minimal prep with store-bought ravioli and pantry staples.
Freezer-Friendly – Make ahead and freeze for an easy dinner later.
Perfect for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

• 1 (25 oz) bag frozen cheese ravioli (no need to thaw)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken/turkey)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

For the Creamy Cheese Layer:

• 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta cheese)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried basil

For Topping:

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon.
4. Drain any excess fat.
5. Add marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Layer

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, ½ cup Parmesan, and dried basil.
2. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
3. Layer half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce.
4. Spoon the entire creamy cheese mixture evenly over the ravioli layer.
5. Add another layer of meat sauce, followed by the remaining ravioli.
6. Top with the rest of the meat sauce.
7. Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan evenly on top.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
3. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Slice into squares and serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Use Frozen Ravioli – No need to thaw. It cooks perfectly in the oven.
Let It Rest – Allow the casserole to sit after baking so it slices neatly.
Switch Up the Protein – Use ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat.
Add Veggies – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to boost the nutrition.
Double Up – Make one to bake and one to freeze for a future meal.

Serving Suggestions
Garlic Bread – Ideal for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
Simple Green Salad – A fresh side balances the richness of the casserole.
Roasted Vegetables – Serve with roasted broccoli, carrots, or asparagus.
Iced Tea or Lemon Water – Light, refreshing drinks pair well with this hearty dish.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating:
Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until hot.
Microwave: Heat individual portions in 45-second intervals until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
   Yes, but reduce the baking time by about 10 minutes since fresh pasta cooks faster.
2. What if I don’t have cream cheese?
   You can skip it or add more cottage cheese for a slightly less rich but still creamy result.
3. Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
   Absolutely! Assemble it ahead, freeze unbaked, and bake directly from frozen (just add 15-20 extra minutes).
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
   Yes! Omit the meat and add sautéed veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
5. Is cottage cheese better than ricotta?
   Both work well. Cottage cheese is slightly lighter and adds extra protein, while ricotta is more traditional and creamier.

Final Thoughts
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that tastes like it came from a restaurant but is super easy to whip up at home. With layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and a bubbling, golden top, it’s a dish that brings the whole family to the table—smiling and hungry for more.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see how your dish turns out.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 470 | Protein: 24g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 28g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 640mg

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