A Comforting, Cheesy Casserole That Feels Like a Million Bucks!
This Creamy Million Dollar Ravioli Delight is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich layers of cheese ravioli, a savory marinara sauce, and a creamy, cheesy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Baked to perfection, it’s a cheesy, gooey, and satisfying meal that’s guaranteed to impress everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re serving a family or hosting friends, this dish is perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Ravioli Bake:
- 1 bag (24 oz) frozen cheese ravioli (you can use fresh ravioli if preferred, but frozen is usually more convenient)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (choose a high-quality brand or use homemade for extra flavor)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk ricotta will give you a creamier texture)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (shred it yourself for better melt and flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated if possible for the best taste)
For the Seasoning and Extra Flavor:
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing the sauce)
- 1 tsp dried basil (or use 1 tbsp of fresh basil if you have it on hand)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced, for a more intense flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Sauce
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a medium-sized pan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the Marinara Sauce and Seasoning: Pour in the marinara sauce, then add the dried basil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine, and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This will also thicken the sauce slightly. If you’re using fresh garlic, sauté it in the olive oil for 1-2 minutes before adding the marinara to bring out its fragrance.
Step 2: Assemble the Ravioli Bake
- Layer the Bottom of the Casserole Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or non-stick spray. Spread a thin layer of the prepared marinara sauce on the bottom to prevent the ravioli from sticking.
- Add the First Layer of Ravioli: Spread half of the frozen ravioli evenly over the sauce. It’s okay if the ravioli is frozen—no need to thaw them beforehand. They’ll cook perfectly in the oven.
- Spread the First Layer of Cheeses: Take half of the ricotta cheese and spread it in dollops over the ravioli. Follow this by sprinkling half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan evenly over the ravioli and ricotta.
Step 3: Repeat the Layers
- Add Another Layer of Sauce and Ravioli: Spread the remaining sauce over the cheeses, then layer the remaining frozen ravioli on top.
- Add the Final Layer of Cheese: Spread the remaining ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese over the ravioli. You can sprinkle a bit more mozzarella on top for extra cheesy goodness.
- Cover with Aluminum Foil: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and ensure that the ravioli cook through without drying out.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake Covered: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the Foil and Continue Baking: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Cool and Slice: Let the dish cool for about 5 minutes before serving, so the cheese sets a bit and makes it easier to slice.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for added flavor.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness! This dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad and garlic bread.
Tips for Success
- Quality Marinara Sauce: The flavor of the sauce is key to this dish. Opt for a high-quality jarred marinara or make your own to really elevate the flavors. You can add red pepper flakes for a little heat or a splash of red wine for depth.
- Layering Tip: Make sure to layer the ravioli and cheese evenly for the perfect bite every time. If you prefer extra cheesy layers, feel free to add more mozzarella or ricotta.
- Add Veggies: You can sneak in some vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini between the layers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Meat Lovers Version: Brown some ground sausage or beef and layer it between the ravioli for a heartier version.
- Make It Ahead: You can assemble this dish the day before and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake as directed.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: A loaf of warm, crispy garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to scoop up any leftover sauce.
- Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the richness of the ravioli casserole.
- Roasted Veggies: Pair this dish with roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a well-rounded meal.
Storage and Reheating
- Store: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot (about 15-20 minutes).
Wine Pairing
Pair this dish with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti, Merlot, or Zinfandel to complement the marinara sauce and cheese. If you prefer white wine, a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc would also work well.
This Creamy Million Dollar Ravioli Delight is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering layers of cheesy goodness with every bite. Whether for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, it’s a simple yet elegant dish that everyone will love! Enjoy!