Why Make This Recipe
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the comfort of pasta with rich, cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for family dinners and is a great way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it uses simple ingredients that are usually on hand, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights.
How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Making Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is straightforward. You layer ravioli, marinara sauce, and a creamy cheese mixture to create a delightful dish that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 package ravioli (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Layer half of the ravioli over the sauce.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Spread half of the ricotta mix over the ravioli, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli, sauce, ricotta mix, and cheeses.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil before serving.
How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
To serve, cut the casserole into squares and serve warm. You can offer extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. It’s perfect for pairing with a fresh salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual servings.
Tips to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
- For a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- You can use any type of cheese you enjoy in the recipe.
- Try adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to make it even more nutritious.
Variation
You can easily customize this casserole by using different sauces or proteins. For instance, adding cooked ground beef or Italian sausage can add a savory twist to the dish. Alternatively, try using a pesto sauce instead of marinara for a fresh flavor.
FAQs
Can I use homemade ravioli?
Yes! Homemade ravioli can work great in this recipe and may add an extra layer of flavor.
Is this casserole freeze-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it well and bake it straight from the freezer when you’re ready.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a fun and satisfying dish that everyone can appreciate. With its layers of ravioli, sauce, and cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. For more delicious variations and ideas on preparing casseroles, visit Plain Chicken. Enjoy your cooking!
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Layer half of the ravioli over the sauce.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Spread half of the ricotta mix over the ravioli, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli, sauce, ricotta mix, and cheeses.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil before serving.