Brilliant Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe

The Irresistible Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe

Ever wondered how a classic million dollar ravioli casserole could become your new dinner obsession?

Comfort food gets a delicious upgrade with this crowd-pleasing dish.

Layers of cheese, pasta, and savory sauce create an irresistible meal that feels like a warm hug.

Creamy textures blend perfectly with hearty ingredients, making every bite a celebration of flavor.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious boost of excitement.

Families and friends will be asking for seconds before the first plate is empty.

You’re about to unlock a recipe that turns ordinary ingredients into something spectacular.

What Makes Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole A Favorite

  • Quick-Fix Comfort Meal: Transforms classic lasagna into a delightful, hearty dish that combines multiple pasta styles for maximum flavor and excitement.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Gathering Showstopper: Perfect for feeding a hungry group with its generous portions and irresistible combination of meats, cheeses, and sauces.
  • Flexible Family Favorite: Allows easy customization by switching protein types or adding extra vegetables, making it adaptable to different taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Minimal Prep, Maximum Satisfaction: Requires straightforward cooking techniques with simple layering method that delivers restaurant-quality results without complex culinary skills.

What You’ll Need For Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

For the Meats:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty protein base that adds rich flavor and substance to the casserole.
  • Italian Sausage: Provides a robust and spicy undertone to enhance the meat layer.
For the Cheese:
  • Ricotta Cheese: Creates a creamy and smooth layer with a light, delicate texture.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Adds a classic stretchy and melty topping that browns beautifully.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Brings a sharp and salty dimension to complement the other cheeses.
For the Pasta and Sauce:
  • Lasagna Noodles: Forms the structural foundation of the layered casserole.
  • Cheese Ravioli: Introduces an extra cheesy element to the dish.
  • Marinara Sauce, Crushed Tomatoes: Provides a tangy and rich sauce that binds the layers together.
For the Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Garlic, Italian Seasoning, Salt, Black Pepper: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
  • Fresh Basil: Adds a bright, aromatic finish to the casserole.
For the Cooking Essentials:
  • Olive Oil: Used for browning the meat and adding a subtle richness.
  • Eggs: Helps bind the ricotta cheese mixture.
  • Aluminum Foil: Covers the casserole during initial baking to prevent burning.

How To Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Step By Step

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Set your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a large casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.

Step 2: Cook The Meat Medley

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage together, breaking the meat into small crumbles until fully cooked with no pink remaining.

Step 3: Season The Meat

Drain excess fat from the meat mixture and return to the skillet. Add:
  • Minced garlic
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir to combine and infuse delicious flavors throughout the meat.

Step 4: Prepare Creamy Cheese Blend

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Eggs
  • Chopped fresh basil

Creating a smooth and herbal cheese mixture that will add richness to the dish.

Step 5: Create First Noodle Layer

Layer the bottom of the casserole dish with lasagna noodles, slightly overlapping to create a complete base covering.

Step 6: Build First Meat Layer

Spread half of the meat mixture evenly over the lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of cheese ravioli.

Step 7: Add First Sauce Layer

Pour half of the marinara sauce and crushed tomatoes over the ravioli layer, ensuring even coverage.

Step 8: Spread Cheese Layer

Spread the ricotta cheese mixture on top, creating a smooth and even layer across the entire dish.

Step 9: Sprinkle Cheese Topping

Generously sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheeses over the ricotta layer for extra cheesy goodness.

Step 10: Repeat Layering

Repeat the layering process with remaining lasagna noodles, meat, ravioli, sauce, and cheese layers.

Step 11: Initial Baking

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 12: Final Browning

Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 13: Rest And Set

Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving to help it set and make cutting easier.

Step 14: Garnish And Serve

Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired and serve hot, straight from the oven.

Tips To Help With Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

  • Prevent Sticking Smartly: Grease the casserole dish thoroughly to ensure easy serving and cleanup without residue.
  • Balance Meat Flavors: Combine ground beef and Italian sausage for a richer, more complex taste profile that elevates the entire dish.
  • Drain Fat Carefully: Remove excess grease from meat to keep the lasagna from becoming too oily and maintain a lighter texture.
  • Layer with Precision: Overlap lasagna noodles and place ingredients evenly to create a perfect bite with consistent flavors in every serving.
  • Cheese Melting Magic: Let the casserole rest after baking to allow cheeses to set and make cutting and serving much easier without falling apart.

Tasty Twists On Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

  • Vegetarian Ravioli Lasagna: Replace ground beef and sausage with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a meat-free version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and cheese ravioli to accommodate those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Spicy Mexican-Style Variation: Swap Italian seasonings for taco seasoning, use pepper jack cheese, and add diced green chiles for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute lasagna noodles and ravioli with zucchini slices or cauliflower layers to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining the dish's rich, comforting essence.

What Goes Well With Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

  • Pair Robust Red Wine: Select a bold Italian red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese to complement the rich, meaty layers and cut through the creamy cheese.
  • Crisp Salad Sidekick: Create a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the lasagna's heaviness and provide a light, zesty contrast.
  • Garlic Bread Companion: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up excess marinara sauce and add a delightful crunch alongside the soft casserole textures.
  • Herb-Infused Sparkling Water: Prepare a refreshing herb-infused sparkling water with basil and lemon to cleanse the palate between bites and enhance the dish's Italian flavors.

How To Store Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole The Right Way

  • Transfer leftovers to airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the lasagna fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid to prevent moisture loss and absorption of other food odors.
  • Wrap individual portions or the entire casserole in freezer-safe plastic wrap and aluminum foil, storing flat in the freezer for up to 3 months. Label with the date to track freshness and prevent freezer burn.
  • Place individual portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even warming and check internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole FAQ Guide

  • How do I know if the meat is fully cooked?

Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage until no pink remains and the meat is fully crumbled. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety.

  • Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute dried basil. Use about 1/3 of the amount of fresh basil (so if the recipe calls for 1/4 cup fresh, use 1-2 tablespoons dried). Dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

  • What type of ravioli works best in this recipe?

Cheese ravioli is recommended, but you can also use meat-filled ravioli for extra flavor. Choose fresh or frozen ravioli that are medium-sized for best results.

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Brilliant Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe

Brilliant Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 90 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Comfort meets luxury in this million dollar ravioli casserole, blending rich cheeses and savory meats into a hearty Italian-inspired feast. Creamy layers and golden-brown edges promise a delicious dinner that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

  • 1 box lasagna noodles
  • 1 box cheese ravioli

Meat and Cheese:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb ground italian sausage
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese

Sauce and Seasonings:

  • 2 jars marinara sauce
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tbsp italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a large casserole dish to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef and Italian sausage together, breaking the meat into small crumbles until fully cooked and no pink remains.
  3. Drain excess fat from the meat mixture and return to the skillet, adding minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, stirring to combine and infuse flavors.
  4. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, eggs, and chopped fresh basil, creating a creamy and herbal cheese mixture.
  5. Layer the bottom of the casserole dish with lasagna noodles, slightly overlapping to create a complete base covering.
  6. Spread half of the meat mixture evenly over the lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of cheese ravioli.
  7. Pour half of the marinara sauce and crushed tomatoes over the ravioli layer, ensuring even coverage.
  8. Spread the ricotta cheese mixture on top, creating a smooth and even layer.
  9. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheeses generously over the ricotta layer.
  10. Repeat the layering process with remaining lasagna noodles, meat, ravioli, sauce, and cheese layers.
  11. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  12. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
  13. Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving to help it set and make cutting easier.
  14. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired and serve hot.

Notes

  • Customize meat choices by swapping ground beef and sausage with turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences.
  • Create a gluten-free version by using gluten-free lasagna noodles and checking ravioli labels for wheat-free options.
  • Enhance flavor depth by adding roasted garlic or sautéed onions to the meat mixture for extra complexity.
  • Prep ahead by assembling the casserole a day before baking, storing covered in the refrigerator to develop richer flavors.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 850 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg
James Hambly

James Hambly

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Education, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Southern Cuisine

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Hands-on training in professional cooking techniques, emphasizing farm-to-table practices and Southern cuisine.

The Chef’s Academy
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive culinary education covering global cuisines, kitchen management, and food safety.​


James grew up surrounded by the smells of cast-iron skillets and slow-cooked Southern meals in Asheville, North Carolina.
He sharpened his skills with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, and later leveled up with an Associate Degree from The Chef’s Academy.
James’s philosophy is simple: the best meals don’t need fancy tricks, just fresh ingredients, a hot pan, and a little bit of heart. His favorite days are spent testing one-pan wonders, chasing bold flavors, and creating recipes that feel easy, even on a busy night.

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