A rich and cheesy casserole that’s perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 bag (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli, followed by half of the remaining meat sauce. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and cheeses.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: 480 kcal
Servings: 6
Helpful Tips
- For added flavor, use a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Thaw the ravioli slightly before layering for even cooking.
- If you like a crispy cheese topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to make slicing and serving easier.
Substitutions
- Replace ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a different texture.
- Use marinara sauce with basil or garlic for added depth of flavor.
- Swap out the ravioli with tortellini for a fun variation.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the layers for extra vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Assemble it, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding about 20-25 extra minutes.
How can I make this vegetarian?
Use plant-based sausage or skip the meat altogether. Add extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a hearty alternative.
What should I serve with this casserole?
Pair it with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
More Relevant Recipes