Ravioli Casserole Million Dollar: Easy Recipe for a Crowd

Ravioli Casserole Million Dollar – yes, you read that right! Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly decadent and surprisingly easy dish that will have everyone begging for seconds. Imagine layers of tender, cheese-filled ravioli smothered in a creamy, rich sauce, baked to golden, bubbly perfection. It’s comfort food elevated to a whole new level, and trust me, it tastes even better than it sounds.

While the exact origins of this “Million Dollar” moniker are shrouded in mystery, one thing is certain: this casserole is pure gold in terms of flavor and satisfaction. Casseroles, in general, have a long and storied history as a way to feed families efficiently and affordably. They represent resourcefulness and the joy of sharing a hearty meal. This Ravioli Casserole Million Dollar takes that concept and adds a touch of luxury, transforming humble ingredients into something truly special.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The soft, pillowy ravioli, the creamy, cheesy sauce, and the slightly crispy top create a symphony of sensations in your mouth. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead meal, perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks. People love it because it’s both indulgent and practical – a winning combination in any kitchen. So, get ready to experience a taste of luxury without breaking the bank. Let’s dive into this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole recipe!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 (25 ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (25 ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli, partially thawed
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Preparing the Ricotta Mixture:

Okay, let’s get started! First, we’re going to make the creamy, cheesy layer that makes this casserole so decadent. This is where the “million dollar” part comes in, I think!

1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, the egg, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together really well until it’s smooth and creamy. Don’t be afraid to use a fork or a small whisk to get all those lumps out. We want a nice, even texture.
2. Taste the ricotta mixture. Does it need a little more salt or pepper? Now’s the time to adjust it to your liking. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
3. Set the ricotta mixture aside for now. We’ll use it later to layer into our casserole.

Making the Enhanced Marinara Sauce:

Next, we’re going to doctor up that jar of marinara sauce. While jarred sauce is convenient, adding a few fresh ingredients really elevates the flavor and makes it taste homemade. Trust me, this step is worth it!

1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Burnt garlic is bitter and will ruin the flavor of the sauce.
2. Add the dried oregano and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This helps to bloom the spices and release their flavor.
3. Pour in the jar of marinara sauce. Stir to combine everything. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. The longer it simmers, the better it will taste!
4. Taste the sauce. Does it need more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity? Adjust the seasoning to your liking. I sometimes add a teaspoon of sugar if the sauce is too acidic.
5. Remove the sauce from the heat and set aside.

Assembling the Ravioli Casserole:

Now for the fun part – layering everything together! This is where the magic happens and the casserole starts to take shape.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure your oven rack is in the center position.
2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make it easier to clean up later.
3. Spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. This will prevent the ravioli from sticking and add a layer of flavor to the bottom of the casserole.
4. Arrange half of the partially thawed ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. You don’t want to overcrowd the dish, so make sure the ravioli are evenly spaced.
5. Spread the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the ravioli. Use a spatula or spoon to spread it as smoothly as possible.
6. Sprinkle 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese over the ricotta mixture.
7. Pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over the mozzarella cheese.
8. Arrange the remaining ravioli in a single layer over the sauce.
9. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the ravioli.
10. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top.

Baking the Ravioli Casserole:

Almost there! Now it’s time to bake the casserole until it’s bubbly and golden brown. The aroma that will fill your kitchen is simply divine!

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will prevent the cheese from browning too quickly and ensure that the ravioli are cooked through.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the cheese from burning.
4. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to slice.

Serving and Garnishing:

Finally, it’s time to enjoy your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole! This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

1. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. The fresh basil adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor.
2. Serve hot. You can serve it as is, or with a side salad or some garlic bread.
3. Enjoy! This casserole is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize this recipe to your liking? Here are a few ideas:

• Add meat: Brown some ground beef, Italian sausage, or turkey and add it to the marinara sauce for a heartier casserole.
• Add vegetables: Sauté some mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini and add them to the marinara sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Use different cheese: Try using provolone, fontina, or asiago cheese instead of or in addition to mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or use a spicy Italian sausage.
• Use different ravioli: Experiment with different flavors of ravioli, such as spinach and cheese, mushroom, or meat.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time.
• Freeze it: Assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

Enjoy your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This Ravioli Casserole Million Dollar recipe is truly a must-try, and I’m not just saying that. It’s the perfect weeknight meal because it’s incredibly easy to throw together, yet it tastes like you spent hours slaving away in the kitchen. The combination of the cheesy ravioli, the rich meat sauce, and that creamy, decadent topping is simply irresistible. It’s comfort food at its finest, guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters in your family.

Why This Ravioli Casserole is a Winner:

Seriously, what’s not to love? It’s quick, it’s easy, it’s cheesy, and it’s packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover meat sauce you might have lurking in the fridge. But even if you’re starting from scratch, the recipe is so straightforward that anyone can make it. And the best part? It’s a crowd-pleaser! I’ve made this for potlucks, family gatherings, and even just a cozy night in, and it’s always a hit. People always ask for the recipe, and now you’ll have it too!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

While this Ravioli Casserole Million Dollar is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to your liking. For a vegetarian option, you can easily substitute the meat sauce with a marinara sauce or a vegetable-based sauce. You could also add some sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of ravioli, such as spinach and ricotta or butternut squash.

As for serving suggestions, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the richness of the casserole. Garlic bread is also a classic pairing that’s always a winner. And for dessert? How about a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of chocolate cake? The possibilities are endless!

Another fun variation is to add a layer of crispy breadcrumbs on top of the casserole before baking. Simply toss some breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle them over the top for a crunchy, golden-brown crust. You can also experiment with different cheeses. Instead of just mozzarella, try adding some provolone, fontina, or even a sprinkle of gorgonzola for a bolder flavor.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own! That’s the beauty of cooking – it’s all about experimenting and finding what you love.

I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your household. It’s the kind of dish that you can always rely on to deliver a delicious and satisfying meal, no matter the occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this Ravioli Casserole Million Dollar!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think and any variations you might have tried. Happy cooking!