Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Ingredients:
1 (25 oz) package frozen cheese ravioli
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage, if preferred)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or spaghetti sauce)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the Ravioli:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the frozen ravioli according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef (or Italian sausage), breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the meat until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Make the Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Assemble the Casserole:
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the ingredients:
First, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
Then, add a layer of cooked ravioli on top of the sauce.
Spread half of the cheese mixture on top of the ravioli.
Repeat the layers, ending with the meat sauce on top.
Bake the Casserole:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and bubble.
Serve:
Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
