Ingredients:
- 1 (25 oz) package frozen cheese ravioli (or your favorite variety)
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade sauce)
- 1 (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Cook the Ravioli: Cook the ravioli according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Make the Cheese Mixture:
- In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and ricotta cheese together until smooth. You can use a hand mixer or a whisk for this.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until fully combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
- Layer half of the cooked ravioli over the sauce.
- Spoon half of the cheese mixture over the ravioli and spread it evenly.
- Add half of the remaining meat sauce and spread it over the cheese layer.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli, cheese mixture, and meat sauce.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the casserole.
- Bake:
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color.
Serve:
This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Pair it with a side salad and garlic bread for a full meal.
Enjoy this cheesy, creamy, and satisfying dish that will definitely become a family favorite!