Step 1: Prepare the Ravioli
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Cook the Ravioli
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the ravioli according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Sauté the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. - Add Marinara Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked beef and stir well. Let it simmer on low heat while you prepare the creamy filling.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Filling
- Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, and softened cream cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the Ingredients
Spread a small amount of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish (to prevent sticking). Layer half of the cooked ravioli over the sauce. - Add the Creamy Filling
Spread half of the ricotta-cream cheese mixture over the ravioli. - Layer with Meat Sauce and Cheese
Spread half of the remaining meat sauce over the creamy layer, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. - Repeat Layers
Layer the remaining ravioli, followed by the rest of the creamy mixture and remaining meat sauce. Top with the last cup of mozzarella cheese and finish with grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. - Let it Rest
Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes to set before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish
Sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley if desired for added color and flavor. - Serve
Spoon out the warm, cheesy, and flavorful casserole onto plates and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
- Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality marinara sauce and cheeses will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Customize the Filling: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the layers for added texture and nutrition.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Bake an additional 10-15 minutes if baking from chilled.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is comfort food at its finest. It’s easy to make, impressive to serve, and delivers a creamy, cheesy experience that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy!