There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm casserole, don’t you think? It’s like a hug in a dish! My absolute favorite is this million dollar ravioli casserole, and trust me, it deserves its name! Layers of cheesy goodness, combined with the delightful savory flavors of marinara sauce and tender ravioli, come together to create a dish that’s simply irresistible. I remember making this with my family on chilly weekends, and every bite was a reminder of home and warmth. The best part? It’s effortless to pull together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering. You’re gonna love how easy it is to whip up, yet it feels like a million bucks on your dinner table!
Ingredients for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious million dollar ravioli casserole! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 packages of frozen cheese ravioli (18-20 ounces each)
- 2 cups of marinara sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese (make sure it’s shredded for easy melting)
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese (creamy and rich for that perfect layer)
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (adds a nice salty flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning (for that herbaceous kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t forget to season well!)
With these simple ingredients, you’re already halfway to a comforting and delicious meal! You can also personalize it with your favorite additions like vegetables or meats if you’d like. Just remember, the magic really happens when you layer everything together beautifully!
How to Prepare Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and dive into making this delicious million dollar ravioli casserole! Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through each step. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, your casserole will bake evenly and get that golden, bubbly top we all adore.
- In a large baking dish, spread a generous layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. This will keep the ravioli from sticking and adds a great flavor base.
- Next, grab that package of frozen cheese ravioli and layer them right on top of the sauce. Don’t worry about thawing them; they’ll cook perfectly as they bake!
- Now, it’s time for the ricotta cheese! Spread it evenly over the ravioli. This creamy layer is what makes each bite so rich and satisfying.
- Sprinkle a mix of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the ricotta, giving it that cheesy goodness we crave.
- Repeat these layers until you’ve used up all your ingredients, making sure to finish with a generous layer of mozzarella on top—because we all want that melty finish!
- Season the top with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to enhance those flavors. A little sprinkle goes a long way!
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep everything moist and bake for 25 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring the ravioli cook through.
- After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and pop it back in the oven for another 15 minutes. You want that cheese to be bubbly and just starting to turn golden brown.
- Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps everything set nicely and makes it easier to dish out!
And there you have it! A deliciously layered million dollar ravioli casserole ready to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Nutritional Information
When it comes to comfort food like this million dollar ravioli casserole, it’s nice to know what you’re serving up! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving (1/6 of the casserole):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 18g
Keep in mind, these figures can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use, so it’s always good to check the labels for the most accurate information. But overall, this casserole is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s sure to please your taste buds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This million dollar ravioli casserole is truly a winner in my kitchen, and here’s why you’re going to love it too:
- Quick Preparation: It comes together in no time! With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready to pop in the oven.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Each bite is packed with cheesy goodness and comforting flavors that leave you feeling full and content.
- Perfect for Family Dinners: This dish is a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner with loved ones.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite ingredients! Add cooked ground beef, veggies, or even different cheeses to make it your own.
Honestly, once you try it, I bet it’ll become a staple in your home too! It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone happy and satisfied.
Tips for Success with Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
To ensure your million dollar ravioli casserole turns out absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few handy tips that I always keep in mind when making this dish. Let’s make sure it’s a hit every time!
- Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your casserole will shine through if you use good-quality marinara sauce and cheese. If you have a favorite brand, stick with it! Homemade sauce can elevate the dish even more.
- Don’t Thaw the Ravioli: I know it’s tempting, but using frozen ravioli straight from the package is best! They’ll cook perfectly in the oven, and the sauce helps keep them moist.
- Add Extra Protein: If you want to boost the protein content, consider adding cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken. Just layer it in between the pasta and cheese!
- Mix Up the Cheeses: Feel free to swap out the cheeses! Try adding some provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile. You can also mix in some ricotta with herbs for an extra creamy layer.
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow your casserole to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut and serve without everything sliding around.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Want to sneak in some veggies? Chopped spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or zucchini slices are great additions. Layer them in for added nutrition and flavor!
- Save Some Sauce: If you have extra marinara, keep a little on the side for serving! It’s perfect for drizzling over individual portions for an extra burst of flavor.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a million dollar ravioli casserole that’ll impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal truly memorable, consider pairing your million dollar ravioli casserole with a few delightful sides. Here are some of my favorites:
- Garlic Bread: Nothing beats the classic combo of garlic bread with pasta! The buttery, garlicky goodness is perfect for scooping up that cheesy casserole.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds a nice crunch and a tangy flavor that balances out the richness of the casserole. Plus, it’s super easy to toss together!
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans are a fantastic way to add some color and nutrition to your plate without overpowering the main dish.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing side that complements the Italian flavors beautifully.
- Antipasto Platter: For a fun and shareable option, create an antipasto platter with cured meats, olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses to nibble on before the main event!
These sides not only elevate your meal but also create a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will enjoy. Dive in and make it a feast!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your delicious million dollar ravioli casserole, you might be wondering how to store those tempting leftovers. Don’t worry! Storing and reheating is a breeze, and I’ll guide you through it.
First, let your casserole cool down to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation from forming, which can make the dish soggy. Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer it to an airtight container if you prefer. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to indulge again, reheating is simple! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If the casserole is in the original baking dish, just pop it right in. If it’s in a different container, transfer it back to an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil to keep it moist and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If you want to get that cheesy top nice and bubbly again, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
If you want to save some for later, you can also freeze portions of your casserole. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or wrap them well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then follow the reheating instructions mentioned above.
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll enjoy your million dollar ravioli casserole just as much the next time around!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! You can use fresh ravioli if you prefer. Just keep in mind that they may require a shorter baking time since they’re already cooked. Keep an eye on the casserole to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the million dollar ravioli casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
You’ll know it’s done when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden. If you want to be sure, you can use a food thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to sneak in some chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms between the layers. Just make sure to sauté any vegetables first to reduce excess moisture, which could make the casserole watery.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes! You can freeze portions of the million dollar ravioli casserole for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use airtight freezer containers. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole: 7 Reasons to Love It
- Temps Total: 55 minutes
- Rendement: 6 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
A delicious and hearty million dollar ravioli casserole that combines layers of cheese, ravioli, and savory sauce.
Ingrédients
- 2 packages of frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce.
- Add a layer of frozen ravioli on top of the sauce.
- Spread ricotta cheese over the ravioli.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the ricotta.
- Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with mozzarella on top.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can add cooked ground beef or sausage for extra protein.
- Use fresh herbs for more flavor.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 40 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Course
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 350
- Sucre: 4g
- De Sodium: 600mg
- La graisse: 18g
- Graisses Saturées: 10g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 6g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 35g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 18g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 50mg
Mots-clés: million dollar ravioli casserole, ravioli, casserole, Italian dish
