Are you craving a comfort food that is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor? Look no further than the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole! This mouthwatering casserole combines the richness of cheese, the tanginess of marinara sauce, and the convenience of frozen ravioli to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. Whether you are hosting a family dinner, having friends over, or simply looking to treat yourself to something savory, this casserole recipe is a surefire hit.
The dish is called “Million Dollar” for a reason—it’s a combination of creamy, cheesy layers that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, with just a few ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, it’s the perfect recipe for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike. So, let’s dive into the details of making this savory masterpiece.
Ingredients for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
To make this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients. They are all easy to find in your local grocery store, and most of them are pantry staples.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package frozen ravioli (about 25-30 pieces): The ravioli serves as the base of the casserole and adds texture to the dish. You can choose any variety of ravioli, from cheese to spinach, depending on your preference.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: The marinara sauce adds a rich, tangy flavor that balances out the creaminess of the cheeses.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese gives the casserole a creamy texture that melts beautifully in the oven.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese is the melt-in-your-mouth cheese that binds the layers together, creating that gooey, cheesy top.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, salty flavor that enhances the richness of the other cheeses.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle, savory depth to the dish.
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning: This seasoning blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme complements the marinara sauce and ravioli.
- Salt and pepper: These simple seasonings help balance the dish and bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Directions for Making Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Follow these step-by-step directions to make the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole that will surely impress your family and friends!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking the casserole, allowing the ravioli and cheeses to cook evenly and melt together.
Step 2: Grease the Baking Dish
While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coat of olive oil. This ensures that your casserole won’t stick to the dish, making it easier to serve later on.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Start by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the greased baking dish. This will create a flavorful base for your casserole.
Next, place half of the frozen ravioli on top of the sauce. Arrange them in an even layer so that every ravioli will be covered by the sauce and cheese layers.
Once the ravioli is in place, spread half of the ricotta cheese over the ravioli, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. This creates a rich, cheesy layer.
Repeat this process with another layer of marinara sauce, followed by the remaining ravioli, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. The layers will build up, giving the casserole its classic cheesy and saucy texture.
Step 4: Season and Bake
Now that your casserole is fully layered, sprinkle the top with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. These seasonings will infuse the dish with savory, aromatic flavors.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes. The foil helps trap moisture, ensuring that the ravioli cooks through and that the cheese melts without burning.
Step 5: Finish Baking
After 25-30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes. This step allows the top layer of cheese to become golden and bubbly, giving your casserole a deliciously crispy finish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the casserole is golden and bubbly, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help the casserole set, making it easier to serve. Slice into generous portions and enjoy!
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6-8 servings
Kcal per Serving
Each serving of Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole contains approximately 400-500 kcal, depending on the type of ravioli and cheese you use. It’s a comforting and filling dish, perfect for a family meal.
Tips for Making Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
- Use Fresh Ravioli: While frozen ravioli works perfectly fine, fresh ravioli will elevate the dish and add an even richer flavor and texture.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to your casserole to make it even heartier and add some healthy ingredients.
- Use Different Cheese: You can experiment with different cheese combinations to personalize the dish. Cheddar, Provolone, or Gruyère could be excellent alternatives or additions.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- Make it Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle them on top before baking to add a spicy kick to your casserole.
Benefits of Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
High in Protein
With the combination of ravioli, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella, this casserole is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Rich in Calcium
The cheese in this dish provides a generous amount of calcium, a vital mineral for strong bones and teeth.
Customizable
You can modify this recipe to fit dietary preferences, such as making it gluten-free by using gluten-free ravioli or adding extra vegetables for a more balanced meal.
Quick and Easy
This recipe is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick, comforting meal.
FAQs About Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Can I use homemade ravioli?
Yes! Homemade ravioli would work wonderfully in this recipe, but frozen ravioli is a convenient and time-saving option.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole, bake it, and then freeze individual portions. Just reheat in the oven until it’s bubbly and hot.
Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?
If you don’t like ricotta, you can substitute it with cream cheese or a blend of cottage cheese and cream cheese for a similar texture.
Can I add meat to this casserole?
Yes, feel free to add ground beef, sausage, or chicken to the casserole if you want to make it even heartier. Just cook the meat beforehand and layer it with the ravioli.
Conclusion
The Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a must-try dish for anyone who loves cheesy, savory comfort food. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a large crowd or just treating yourself, this casserole will definitely hit the spot. By following the simple steps and using the ingredients we’ve provided, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that will become a family favorite in no time.
Enjoy making this recipe, and don’t forget to experiment with different variations to suit your tastes. Happy cooking!
