Description
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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Ingredients
For the Casserole:
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1 (25 oz) bag frozen cheese ravioli (no need to thaw)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken/turkey)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp Italian seasoning
For the Creamy Cheese Layer:
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1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta cheese)
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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¼ cup sour cream
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp dried basil
For Topping:
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1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Meat Sauce
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
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Stir in garlic and ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon.
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Drain any excess fat.
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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
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In a medium mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, ½ cup Parmesan, and dried basil.
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Mix well until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
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Layer half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce.
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Spoon the entire creamy cheese mixture evenly over the ravioli layer.
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Add another layer of meat sauce, followed by the remaining ravioli.
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Top with the rest of the meat sauce.
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Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan evenly on top.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
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Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
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Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
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Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
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Slice into squares and serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Cuisine: American