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This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole takes classic cheese ravioli to new heights with layers of seasoned meat sauce, rich melted cheeses, and a golden-brown crust. The result is a decadent, restaurant-quality pasta dish that comes together effortlessly.
Key Ingredients
- Ground beef: 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio provides ideal flavor and texture
- Ravioli: Fresh or frozen cheese ravioli with generous filling
- Cream cheese: Full-fat, room temperature for smooth blending
- Marinara: Choose a thick, herbed sauce
- Mozzarella: Fresh-grated for superior melting
- Italian seasoning: A blend of Mediterranean herbs
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Let cream cheese soften. Heat oven to 350°F. Grease 9x13 baking dish.
- Brown beef in olive oil, drain fat, add minced garlic.
- Season meat with Italian herbs and salt. Stir in marinara.
- Combine softened cream cheese, sour cream and ricotta. Mix in ravioli.
- Layer ravioli mixture, meat sauce, mozzarella and parmesan.
- Bake covered 30 minutes, then uncovered 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
Building the Layers
The layering technique creates distinct flavor zones. Start with the cheese-coated ravioli base, add the rich meat sauce layer, and finish with a generous blanket of cheese that will form a golden crust.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. The flavors develop beautifully overnight. When baking from cold, add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
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Serving Ideas
Balance the rich casserole with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette. Serve alongside warm garlic bread for soaking up the sauce. For entertaining, start with antipasto before the main course.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → Can this dish be prepped early?
- Sure thing! You can put it together a day ahead, keep it in the fridge, and bake it when ready. Add 10-15 extra minutes if you’re starting cold.
- → What kind of ravioli works best?
- Frozen cheese ravioli handles cooking perfectly for this recipe. Fresh ravioli will also work, but you’ll need to reduce the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes.
- → Is it freezer-friendly?
- Absolutely. Wrap it up tight and freeze for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before baking, and give it 15-20 extra minutes in the oven.
- → What pairs well with this bake?
- A nice green salad and breadsticks go great! You could also serve roasted veggies, or a Caesar salad on the side.
- → Can I switch up the meat in this recipe?
- Totally! Try ground turkey, Italian sausage, or a mix. Just remember to drain off any grease after cooking.