Ravioli Lasagna

This Ravioli Lasagna is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family dinner, enjoying a cozy night in, or meal prepping for the week ahead. Combining layers of cheesy goodness with zesty meat sauce and frozen cheese ravioli, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and delectable flavors. You’ll appreciate how effortlessly it comes together in the slow cooker, allowing you to savor every moment without stressing over dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of marinara sauce, spices, and cheeses creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a main course or paired with a salad or garlic bread.
• Crowd-Pleasing: This recipe serves eight, making it great for gatherings or meal prep.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Rich and hearty, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cooking spray
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld over time.
• Large skillet: Essential for browning meat and sautéing vegetables evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring sauces without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

This Ravioli Lasagna recipe is easy to make with a zesty meat sauce, frozen cheese ravioli, and loads of cheese.

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 24 ounces marinara sauce (or pasta sauce)
• 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lasagna Layers

• 25 ounces frozen cheese ravioli (do not thaw)
• 2 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

How to Make Ravioli Lasagna

Step 1: Cook the Meat Mixture

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic over medium-high heat until there’s no pink remaining. Drain any excess fat after cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

Add the marinara sauce, drained diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Simmer uncovered over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes or until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.

Step 3: Set Up the Slow Cooker

Spray the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

Start by adding 1 cup of the prepared meat sauce at the bottom of the slow cooker. Place half of the frozen ravioli on top of this layer. Next, add 2 cups of meat sauce followed by 1 ¼ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat this process with the remaining ravioli, sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Finally, sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Manage Moisture

To avoid excess moisture in your lasagna, place a double layer of paper towel over the top of the slow cooker lid while ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese.

Step 6: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low heat for about 3 to 4 hours until everything is heated through and flavors are well combined.

Step 7: Serve

Once cooked, turn off your slow cooker and remove the lid. Let it rest for about 15 to 20 minutes before serving for better slicing. Enjoy your delicious Ravioli Lasagna!

How to Serve Ravioli Lasagna

Serving Ravioli Lasagna can be both fun and creative. This hearty dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Chopped fresh basil or parsley adds a burst of flavor and color to your dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper on top before serving.

Pair with Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crisp contrast to the richness of the lasagna.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze complement the Italian flavors beautifully.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the sauce.
• Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks offer a delightful texture alongside your ravioli lasagna.

How to Perfect Ravioli Lasagna

To make your Ravioli Lasagna truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips that will elevate the flavors and texture of your dish.

• Bold Layering: Layer the ingredients carefully. Start with sauce, then ravioli, followed by cheese, repeating until all ingredients are used.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality marinara sauce and fresh cheeses for better flavor.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure you have enough space in the slow cooker for even cooking; don’t pack the ingredients too tightly.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Check your lasagna periodically to avoid overcooking; it should be bubbly and hot throughout but not dry.

Best Side Dishes for Ravioli Lasagna

Complementing your Ravioli Lasagna with the right side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a crunchy and flavorful side.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until golden adds color and nutrition.
3. Italian Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats creates a savory starter.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats can be filled with cheese or breadcrumbs for an extra touch.
5. Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach topped with nuts and fruit offers a refreshing contrast to the rich lasagna.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles serve as a low-carb option that pairs well without overshadowing the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ravioli Lasagna, it’s easy to overlook a few key points. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the meat browning: Not browning the meat properly can lead to a bland sauce. Always brown your ground beef or chicken thoroughly for rich flavor.
• Overcooking the ravioli: Cooking the ravioli before adding it to the slow cooker can result in mushy pasta. Use frozen ravioli directly from the package for optimal texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning your meat sauce can make your dish taste flat. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the lasagna too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking for better serving.
• Not using enough cheese: Cheese is a key element in lasagna, so don’t skimp on mozzarella or Parmesan. Layer generously for that gooey texture you crave.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Ravioli Lasagna

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Ravioli Lasagna

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Cut portions and heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ravioli Lasagna?

Ravioli Lasagna is a delicious layered dish made with frozen cheese ravioli, meat sauce, and plenty of cheese, all cooked together in a slow cooker.

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh ravioli; however, keep in mind that fresh pasta may cook faster than frozen, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

How do I customize my Ravioli Lasagna?

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms between layers or substitute different types of cheese according to your preference for added flavor.

How long does Ravioli Lasagna last in the fridge?

Ravioli Lasagna will last up to 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook it.

Conclusion

This Ravioli Lasagna is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With its layers of cheesy goodness and flavorful meat sauce, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or vegetables, making it a versatile dish that everyone will love!