Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing baked dish that combines creamy cheeses, tender ravioli, and a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, this casserole delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures that keep everyone asking for seconds.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free ravioli)
Creamy Cheese Blend
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup)
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (1 cup)
- Parmesan cheese, grated (1/2 cup)
Pasta and Sauce
- Frozen or fresh ravioli (about 20 oz)
- Marinara sauce (2 cups)
Creaminess Enhancers
- Sour cream or cream cheese (1/2 cup)
Seasonings and Aromatics
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon)
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves)
- Onion, finely chopped (1 small)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Prepare the Sauce and Cheese Mixture: Stir together the marinara sauce with sour cream or cream cheese until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta, shredded mozzarella, parmesan, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and finely chopped onions to create the cheese mixture that adds body and flavor to the casserole.
- Layer the Ravioli and Sauce: Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. Arrange a layer of ravioli over the sauce, then spoon dollops of the cheese mixture on top, followed by another layer of sauce. Repeat layers if space allows.
- Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Cover the casserole with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown on top.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes after baking. This resting time helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
Notes
- Use high-quality ravioli (fresh or well-made frozen) for the best texture and flavor.
- Do not skip resting time; it helps flavors meld and prevents the casserole from being too runny.
- Layer evenly to ensure every bite is balanced with sauce and cheese.
- Cover while baking to keep ravioli moist and avoid burning the top before cooking through.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving to brighten the dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: ravioli casserole, baked ravioli, comfort food, cheesy casserole, Italian casserole, family dinner