Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a hearty and cheesy baked pasta dish that brings together tender ravioli, rich tomato sauce, and a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s the kind of comfort food that feels special without much fuss, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. The casserole bakes until bubbly and golden, making every bite satisfying and full of flavor.
I love making this casserole because it’s super easy to throw together, but somehow it always ends up feeling like a treat. Using frozen ravioli saves a lot of time, and the sauce can be as simple or as loaded as you like — sometimes I add a little garlic or Italian seasoning to boost the taste. It’s a great go-to when I want something warm and filling without spending hours in the kitchen.
My favorite way to serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is with a simple green salad and some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. It’s a great meal to share with family or friends, and leftovers heat up just as nicely the next day. Whenever I make this dish, it feels like a little celebration of good food made easy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Cheese Ravioli: This is the star of the dish. I like using cheese-filled ravioli for its creamy texture. If you want, you can swap in meat or spinach ravioli instead.
Ground Beef: Adds savory flavor and substance. For a lighter option, ground turkey or plant-based crumbles work well too.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred variety or homemade tomato sauce. Add extra herbs or a pinch of sugar to balance acidity if needed.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that gooey, melty texture, while Parmesan adds sharpness. Feel free to mix in provolone or cheddar for variation.
How Do I Layer and Bake the Casserole for Best Results?
Layering well ensures every bite has sauce, cheese, and ravioli. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with half the ravioli in a greased dish to avoid sticking.
- Add half the meat sauce for moisture and flavor.
- Sprinkle half the cheeses evenly to melt perfectly.
- Repeat these layers for a balanced casserole.
- Cover with foil during baking to keep it moist.
- Remove foil near the end so the cheese can brown and get bubbly.
- Let it rest briefly after baking to set and make serving easier.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions and garlic evenly.
- Large pot – to boil the frozen ravioli quickly without crowding them.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – roomy enough to layer the casserole and bake it evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring the sauce and breaking up the meat.
- Aluminum foil – helps keep the casserole moist during baking and prevents the cheese from burning.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage for a spicier, deeper flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and a bit of earthiness.
- Mix in ricotta cheese with the mozzarella for a creamier, richer texture.
- Try a dollop of pesto mixed into the sauce for a fresh basil kick.
How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package (about 25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Time You’ll Need:
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, including cooking the beef and prepping ravioli. Baking time is approximately 35-40 minutes, with an additional 5 minutes to let it rest before serving. Total time is about 55-60 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Ingredients:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, chop the onion and mince the garlic so they’re ready to cook.
2. Cook the Beef and Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any extra fat. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer gently for 5 minutes so the flavors blend well.
3. Prepare the Ravioli:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the frozen ravioli and cook them for about half the time recommended on the package, until they’re tender but still firm. Drain the ravioli well to avoid extra moisture in your casserole.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer half of the ravioli evenly across the bottom. Spread half of the meat sauce over the ravioli, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat layering with the remaining ravioli, meat sauce, and cheeses.
5. Bake and Serve:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like, then enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Ravioli Straight from the Freezer?
Yes! Just be sure to boil the frozen ravioli for about half the recommended time so they’re tender but still hold their shape during baking.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it covered, then uncover to brown the cheese as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to keep the cheese melty and delicious.
Can I Substitute Ground Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage all work well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and drain excess fat if needed.
