When you combine comfort food with a touch of luxury, you get the irresistible Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. This dish takes the beloved ravioli to new heights with layers of savory cheese, rich marinara sauce, and a crispy, golden crust. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect option for family dinners, potlucks, or even special occasions. Imagine biting into soft, melt-in-your-mouth ravioli that’s been baked to perfection, topped with a layer of gooey cheese and fragrant sauce. This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, offering a burst of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for a quick but satisfying meal, this recipe delivers all the comforting goodness you crave. In this article, we’ll dive into the steps needed to make this fabulous dish, share some variations to suit different tastes, and give you tips on how to serve and store it.
Ingredients
This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to create the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole:
For the casserole:
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli (or any ravioli of your choice)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade if preferred)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Additional tools:
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Aluminum foil (optional for covering while baking)
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and gives the crust that perfect golden finish.
Step 2: Prepare the ravioli.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the frozen ravioli according to the package instructions, usually around 3-4 minutes until they float to the top. Once cooked, drain the ravioli and set them aside.
Step 3: Prepare the cheese mixture.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything together until well combined. This cheesy blend will create the creamy, flavorful middle layer of the casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the casserole.
Drizzle olive oil into the bottom of your 9×13 inch baking dish. Start by layering half of the cooked ravioli on the bottom of the dish. Spread half of the marinara sauce over the ravioli, then add half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layering with the remaining ravioli, sauce, and cheese mixture. Finally, top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Prepare the topping.
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Stir well to coat the breadcrumbs with butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crispy, golden finish.
Step 6: Bake the casserole.
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy.
Step 7: Garnish and serve.
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and flavor.
Variations
One of the joys of making casseroles is how adaptable they are. The Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole can easily be customized to fit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- Meat lovers’ version: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or pepperoni between the layers for a heartier casserole.
- Vegetarian version: Use a vegetable-based ravioli (such as spinach or mushroom) and include sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Gluten-free version: Swap the regular ravioli for gluten-free ravioli and ensure the breadcrumbs are gluten-free.
- Spicy version: Add a layer of sliced jalapeños or use spicy marinara sauce to give the casserole a little extra heat.
- Pasta alternative: If you prefer not to use ravioli, regular pasta (like ziti or penne) can be substituted. Just cook it al dente before layering it in the casserole.
Cooking Note
The Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a forgiving dish that can be made in advance. If you’re short on time, you can prepare the casserole the day before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply remove the casserole from the fridge 15–20 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature, then bake as directed. This can save you time during busy evenings or when hosting guests.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is rich and filling, so you’ll want to pair it with lighter sides to balance the meal. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole beautifully. Additionally, garlic bread or breadsticks can be served on the side to soak up any leftover marinara sauce. A refreshing side of steamed vegetables or a bowl of roasted broccoli adds a healthy touch to the meal. For a comforting, indulgent dinner, serve it with a glass of red wine such as a Chianti or a Cabernet Sauvignon.
Tips
- For a creamier texture, you can add a few tablespoons of heavy cream to the marinara sauce before layering it over the ravioli.
- If you love extra cheese, feel free to sprinkle more mozzarella on top before baking for an extra cheesy finish.
- You can add a layer of cooked spinach or ricotta for added flavor and texture.
- If you’re looking to add more flavor, sprinkle some Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary on top of the casserole before baking.
- To make this dish even more indulgent, top the casserole with some extra Parmesan cheese right before serving.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
40-45 minutes
Total Time
55-60 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 16 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh ravioli, but make sure to cook it according to package instructions before layering it in the casserole.
Q2: How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake at 350°F until warmed through.
Q3: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be assembled the night before. Simply cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. Bake as instructed the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Q4: How do I make the casserole spicier?
For a spicier version, you can add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or spicy sausage to the casserole. Use a spicy marinara sauce or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Q5: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! If you prefer, you can substitute the ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different texture. You can also use provolone, gouda, or cheddar cheese in place of mozzarella for a unique flavor.
Conclusion
The Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a comforting and indulgent meal that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. With its cheesy layers, rich marinara sauce, and crispy topping, it offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it’s the kind of dish that leaves everyone asking for the recipe. With the option to customize it based on dietary preferences, you can easily make this dish your own. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy a million-dollar meal without the hassle of a complicated recipe.