Cheesy Beef Ravioli Casserole
Introduction
Looking for a comforting dish that everyone in the family will love? The Cheesy Beef Ravioli Casserole is your answer! This hearty meal has layers of savory beef, creamy cheese, and tender ravioli baked to perfection. It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy days or weekends when you want to enjoy something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s simple to prepare and uses easy-to-find ingredients. Plus, who doesn’t love a cheesy, baked dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate?
How to Make Cheesy Beef Ravioli Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Add the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, sour cream, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the frozen cheese ravioli on top of the sauce. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the ravioli, then top with half of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli, cheese mixture, and meat sauce.
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef Ravioli Casserole
Serve the casserole hot right out of the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. Enjoy this meal with family or friends for a cozy dinner!
How to Store Cheesy Beef Ravioli Casserole
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have a lot left, you can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Tips to Make Cheesy Beef Ravioli Casserole
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
- Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Add some red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!
Variation
You can switch up the cheese by using a different blend, like cheddar or provolone. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding different pasta shapes!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen? Yes! Fresh ravioli will work, but adjust the cooking time since it may require less time to bake.
2. Is this recipe kid-friendly? Absolutely! Kids love cheesy dishes, and the ravioli makes it even more fun to eat.
3. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before and keep it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake it!