Description
Creamy, cheesy million dollar ravioli casserole brings Italian comfort straight to dinner tables with irresistible layers of pasta, meat, and rich sauce. Cheese lovers will devour this hearty baked dish that promises warmth and satisfaction in every delicious bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Proteins:
- 1 package (25 ounces / 709 grams) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cheeses:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Sauces and Seasonings:
- 1 jar (24 ounces / 680 grams) marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 350F (175C) for optimal cooking temperature.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium flame. Mince garlic and sauté until aromatic. Add ground beef and brown completely, then eliminate excess grease.
- Incorporate marinara sauce with dried herbs and seasoning. Allow mixture to simmer and develop flavors for approximately 5 minutes.
- Create a creamy cheese blend by combining cottage cheese, ricotta, sour cream, and shredded mozzarella in a mixing bowl.
- Construct initial layer of ravioli across bottom of baking dish, spreading half the prepared cheese mixture evenly.
- Distribute half the seasoned meat sauce over cheese layer, then arrange remaining ravioli on top.
- Complete casserole with final meat sauce coating, sprinkle additional mozzarella and grated Parmesan across surface.
- Transfer to preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese melts and edges turn golden brown.
- Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot.
Notes
- Choose lean ground beef to reduce overall fat content and create a healthier version of this comforting casserole.
- Use whole wheat or spinach ravioli for added nutrition and a subtle flavor variation.
- Experiment with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter protein option that works perfectly for different dietary needs.
- Drain meat thoroughly to prevent excess grease and ensure a crisp, delicious top layer when baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 495 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg