If you’re craving a dish that delivers layers of rich flavors, creamy textures, and cheesy bliss all baked into one irresistible meal, then the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This hearty casserole combines tender cheese ravioli with a savory blend of ground beef and Italian sausage, smothered in luscious marinara, cream cheese, and sour cream, and topped off with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort but maximum satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward yet essential ingredients will set you up for an unforgettable dinner. Each element plays a crucial role, from the savory meats adding depth, to the creamy cheeses that bring smooth richness and balance to the tangy marinara sauce.
- Frozen cheese ravioli: The star of the dish, bringing tender pockets of cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Ground beef: Adds hearty flavor and protein to make this casserole truly satisfying.
- Italian sausage: Provides a deliciously spiced complement to the beef; remove casings for easy cooking.
- Onion (diced): Offers a slight sweetness and aromatic base for the sauce.
- Garlic (minced): Elevates the savory notes with a warm, pungent kick.
- Marinara or pasta sauce: Brings tangy tomato flavor and moisture, marrying all ingredients perfectly.
- Cream cheese (softened): Adds silky creaminess that balances the acidity of the sauce.
- Sour cream: Enhances the richness and creates a velvety texture.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that iconic bubbly and stretchy topping.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a sharp, nutty contrast to the creamy layers beneath.
- Italian seasoning: Blends herbs that give authentic flavor depth.
- Salt and pepper: The simple essentials to season all layers just right.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a bright, fresh touch for garnish and color.
How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Heat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will have beautiful edges when baked.
Step 2: Cook the Meat and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, and diced onion together until browned and fully cooked through, about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from being greasy.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Marinara Sauce
Stir the minced garlic into the meat mixture and cook for one minute until fragrant. Then pour in your marinara sauce, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Let this simmer gently for 5 minutes so all those delicious flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Mix the Cream Cheese and Sour Cream
In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. This creamy mixture is going to add the luscious texture that sets this casserole apart from your typical pasta bake.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole Layers
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then lay half of the frozen ravioli in an even layer over the sauce. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the ravioli, then top this with half of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat this layering with the rest of the ravioli, cream cheese mixture, and meat sauce. This layering creates a symphony of flavor in every serving.
Step 6: Add the Cheese Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese on top is bubbly and deliciously golden brown. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the casserole to set nicely.
How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley over the top adds a vibrant pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness, contrasting the richness of the casserole perfectly. Don’t be shy to add it generously!
Side Dishes
Serve with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for balance, or some crusty garlic bread to soak up all the extra sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus also make a fresh, nutritious side.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a dinner party, try serving individual portions in small ramekins for a personalized touch. You can also layer the casserole in clear glass dishes or trifle bowls to show off the beautiful layers and entice your guests before the first bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the casserole before baking. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. You can also microwave individual slices—cover loosely and heat in 1-minute increments to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh ravioli will work just as well; just be careful with baking times as fresh may cook a bit faster. You might want to adjust to ensure it doesn’t overcook or become mushy.
Is there a vegetarian option for the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe?
Yes, simply omit the ground beef and Italian sausage and replace them with sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. This variation is equally flavorful and satisfying.
What makes it the “Million Dollar” ravioli casserole?
The name comes from its rich combination of creamy cheeses, hearty meats, and flavorful sauce that delivers an incredibly indulgent yet approachable comfort food experience that feels like a million bucks at the table.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble it up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready for a stress-free meal.
How spicy is this dish?
The classic recipe is mild, but if you want more heat, just swap the Italian sausage for a spicy version or add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
Final Thoughts
Making the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cheesy hug that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole delivers flavor, comfort, and satisfaction every time. Don’t wait to try this gem—you’re going to love how simple it is to create something truly spectacular at home.
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Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a hearty and indulgent Italian-American baked pasta dish featuring layers of cheese ravioli, savory ground beef and Italian sausage in a rich marinara sauce, balanced with creamy cream cheese and sour cream, then topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan. Perfect as a comforting weeknight dinner or for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
Meat and Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta Layer
- 1 (25-ounce) bag frozen cheese ravioli
Creamy Layer
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
Cheese Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and allow easy serving.
- Cook meat and aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, Italian sausage, and diced onion for about 7 to 8 minutes until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from being greasy. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add sauce and seasoning: Pour in the jar of marinara sauce along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Prepare creamy mixture: While the sauce simmers, in a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Assemble the casserole – first layer: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce onto the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange half of the frozen cheese ravioli in a single layer over the sauce.
- Add creamy layer and sauce: Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the ravioli, then spoon the remaining half of the meat sauce evenly on top.
- Assemble the second layer: Repeat by layering the remaining ravioli, followed by the remaining cream cheese mixture and meat sauce.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly across the top of the casserole for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Bake covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This ensures the ravioli cook through and the casserole heats evenly.
- Bake uncovered to brown: Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
- Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes to allow it to set, making it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- This casserole can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use spicy Italian sausage if you prefer a bit of heat and added depth of flavor in the dish.
- Feel free to swap marinara for your favorite pasta sauce to customize the taste.
