This Ravioli Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping meal. Layered with tender cheese-filled ravioli, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese mixtures, this casserole offers a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. It’s an excellent choice for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress with minimal effort.
What makes this dish truly stand out is its balance of savory marinara sauce, velvety cream cheese, and melty mozzarella, paired with the tender texture of ravioli. The preparation is straightforward, and the results are nothing short of indulgent. Whether served alongside a crisp salad or a loaf of garlic bread, this dish is bound to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry and freezer staples for a convenient meal.
• Rich and Creamy Layers: The combination of cheeses adds luxurious creaminess.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding a family or a group of friends.
Ingredients
Ravioli and Meat Sauce:
• One 25-ounce package of frozen cheese ravioli
• One pound of ground beef
• One 28-ounce jar of marinara sauce
Cheese Mixture:
• Eight ounces of cream cheese, softened
• One cup of sour cream
• One cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• One teaspoon of garlic powder
• One teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• Half a teaspoon of salt
Toppings:
• Two cups of grated mozzarella cheese, divided
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
1. Set your oven to 400°F (204°C).
2. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and crumbled, ensuring no pink remains.
2. Drain any excess grease and stir in the marinara sauce, mixing well to coat the meat. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Cheese Mixture
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, half of the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.
2. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
3. Add the frozen ravioli to the bowl and gently fold to coat each piece with the cheese mixture, being careful not to break the ravioli.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
1. Spread the ravioli and cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Pour the meat sauce over the ravioli layer, spreading it out to ensure even coverage.
3. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and one cup of mozzarella cheese over the sauce layer.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
1. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.
2. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
1. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
2. Serve warm and enjoy the deliciously layered flavors of your casserole.
Tips
• Soften the Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smooth texture.
• Customize the Sauce: Use your favorite marinara sauce or add extra herbs for a personalized touch.
• Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for provolone or add extra Parmesan for a cheesier flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
• Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole by wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.
This Ravioli Casserole is a true comfort food that’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. With its creamy layers, savory sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again!
