Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for a dish that's bound to impress and satisfy, the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a must-try! This cheesy, hearty, and indulgent casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just when you need a comforting meal. Ready to transform your kitchen into a culinary haven? Stick with me and learn how to make this sensational dish that lives up to its name—Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. Let’s get started!

this Recipe

What is “Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole”?

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a rich, savory baked pasta dish layered with ravioli, a creamy mixture of ricotta and cream cheese, ground beef, marinara sauce, and loads of melted cheese. This casserole combines all the delicious flavors of a lasagna or baked ziti, but it’s easier and quicker to assemble thanks to pre-made ravioli. It’s the ultimate comfort food for any occasion and a great way to feed a crowd.

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Ingredients List for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Before we dive into the cooking instructions, let’s gather everything you need. Here’s the complete list of ingredients to ensure your casserole comes out perfectly:

• 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese or meat ravioli – Cheese ravioli is traditionally used, but you can also use beef ravioli for extra heartiness.
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage – Adds a flavorful, meaty layer to the casserole.
• 2 cups marinara sauce – Store-bought or homemade, use your favorite brand of sauce.
• 8 oz cream cheese – This adds the "million-dollar" richness to the dish.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – To keep things creamy and dreamy.
• 1 cup sour cream – Helps to balance the flavors and adds creaminess.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For that essential cheesy layer on top.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds depth and a nutty flavor to the casserole.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Enhances the flavor profile with a blend of dried herbs.
• Salt and pepper – To taste.
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and freshness.

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Substitutions and Variations

If you want to customize your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, there are plenty of variations and substitutions you can try based on dietary preferences or what you have in your pantry.

• Vegetarian version: Swap out the ground beef or sausage for plant-based ground meat or leave it out altogether and add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free ravioli (many stores offer this option) and ensure that your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.
• Different proteins: You can switch the ground beef for ground turkey, ground chicken, or even chopped rotisserie chicken.
• Cheese variations: Play with the cheeses! Swap out the mozzarella for cheddar or fontina, or use goat cheese in the cream mixture for a tangier taste.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a bit of heat.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow this simple guide to create the perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get things ready for baking.
2. Brown the meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until it’s browned and crumbled, about 8 minutes. Drain excess fat, then add minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to blend flavors. Set aside.
3. Prepare the creamy layer: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, ricotta cheese, sour cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well-blended. This creamy mixture is the key to the “million-dollar” taste.
4. Layer the casserole:
   • Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
   • Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish.
   • Arrange half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce in a single layer.
   • Spread half of the creamy cheese mixture on top of the ravioli.
   • Sprinkle half of the cooked ground beef (or sausage) over the cheese layer.
   • Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli, creamy cheese mixture, meat, and marinara sauce.
5. Top it off: Finish with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Let it rest: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

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How to Cook Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cook the Meat: Begin by browning the ground beef or sausage in a large skillet. The goal is to break the meat into fine crumbles for even distribution in the casserole. Once the meat is cooked, adding garlic and Italian seasoning will infuse the casserole with classic Italian flavors.
2. Make the Cream Mixture: Combine cream cheese, ricotta, and sour cream. This mixture brings the signature richness to the dish and binds everything together.
3. Layering: Layering is key to the structure and taste of this casserole. By alternating between marinara sauce, ravioli, cheese, and meat, you create a lasagna-like texture, where each bite offers a delicious blend of flavors.
4. Baking and Melting: Baking allows all the components to meld together. The cheeses will melt beautifully, the ravioli will cook through, and the sauce will soak into each layer, creating a delightful bite every time.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole turns out perfectly, watch out for these common mistakes:

• Using too much sauce: While sauce is important, adding too much can result in a soupy casserole. Stick to the recommended 2 cups for best results.
• Not covering the dish while baking: If you forget to cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking, the top layer can become overly browned before the inside is fully cooked.
• Skipping the resting period: Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps it firm up. Skipping this step may cause your casserole to fall apart when served.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

This casserole is perfect as a one-dish meal, but pairing it with a few sides can make your meal even more memorable. Here are some ideas:

• Serve with garlic bread: A classic accompaniment to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• Pair with a salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Add roasted vegetables: Roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts offer a nice crunch and extra nutrition.

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How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

To serve this dish, simply cut it into squares like a lasagna. Each piece should hold its shape if you’ve allowed it to rest. Place the slices on plates and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added color and flavor. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for extra cheesy goodness.

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Presentation Ideas for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley not only adds a burst of color but also a lovely freshness to each serving.
• Use a casserole dish that doubles as serveware: A pretty ceramic baking dish can go straight from the oven to the dinner table for easy serving and a rustic presentation.
• Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil: A light drizzle of quality olive oil on top just before serving gives the casserole an elevated, restaurant-worthy finish.

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Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-ahead option: You can assemble this casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just increase the bake time by about 10 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
• Freezer-friendly: Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil before baking and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Use leftover meats: Got leftover ground beef or shredded chicken? This recipe is a great way to use it up!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! Fresh ravioli works just as well, but reduce the baking time by about 5-10 minutes since fresh pasta cooks faster.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes! Omit the meat and consider adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to make it a hearty vegetarian dish.

Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze individual portions for a quick meal later.

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Conclusion

There you have it—your guide to making a Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole that’s rich, indulgent, and absolutely satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a go-to recipe. Now that you know all the steps, tips, and variations, why not give it a try today? Enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!

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