Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Looking for a comforting, creamy, and cheesy weeknight dinner that tastes like a million bucks? This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is exactly what you need! Packed with layers of hearty ravioli, rich tomato sauce, and a luscious creamy cheese mixture, this baked dish is a family favorite that’s always a hit at the dinner table.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ultra Creamy & Cheesy – Layers of gooey cheese make this a comfort food dream.
Super Easy – Uses store-bought ravioli and pantry staples for quick prep.
Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or when you’re feeding a crowd.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble it in advance and bake when ready.
Customizable – Add veggies or swap in your favorite type of ravioli.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

• 1 bag (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli (do not thaw)
• 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Cheese Layer:

• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Topping:

• 1 to 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked.
Drain excess fat, then stir in marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 5–7 minutes to let the flavors blend. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese.
Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce.
Spread half of the cheese mixture on top of the ravioli.
Add half of the remaining meat sauce, then repeat the layers: ravioli, cheese mixture, and meat sauce.
Top with 1 to 1½ cups shredded mozzarella and 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Don’t Thaw the Ravioli – Use straight from the freezer for best texture.
Use Full-Fat Dairy – For the richest flavor and creamiest texture.
Customize It – Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini between layers for extra nutrition.
Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for heat.
Let It Rest – Resting time helps the layers set for cleaner slices.

Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in Italian dressing.
Pair with garlic bread or homemade breadsticks.
Add a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for balance.
Finish with a light dessert like fruit salad or lemon sorbet.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months (before baking).

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat at 350°F, covered, until hot—about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual portions in 30-second bursts until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
   Yes! Reduce the baking time by 5–10 minutes, since fresh cooks faster.
2. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Absolutely! Just skip the meat and use spinach or mushrooms instead.
3. What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
   Ricotta cheese is a great alternative if you prefer a smoother texture.
4. Can I assemble this ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, store covered in the fridge, and bake when ready.
5. Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
   Yes, with dairy-free alternatives for cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheese, though the flavor and texture will differ.

Final Thoughts
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole lives up to its name with layers of creamy, cheesy, meaty goodness baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or feeding your family, this dish delivers all the comfort food vibes with very little effort. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and customize to your taste.

Make it once and it’ll be in your weekly rotation for sure. Don’t forget to rate and share if you loved it!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40–45 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 450 | Protein: 24g | Carbohydrates: 30g | Fat: 28g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 710mg

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