Ravioli casserole is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a comforting, cheesy meal with minimal effort. This baked dish combines tender ravioli, creamy ricotta, and savory sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both easy to prepare and sure to impress, this ravioli casserole is a winner. In this post, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and creative ideas to make this dish your new favorite.
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Key Benefits of This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
A Rich, Cheesy, Crowd-Pleasing Dinner Idea
Looking for a rich, cheesy dinner that’s easy to make and loved by all? This million dollar ravioli casserole is exactly that! With layers of tender ravioli, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese baked to perfection, it’s a comforting meal that brings everyone to the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish combines convenience with incredible flavor.
I often make this million dollar ravioli casserole when I want a no-fuss dinner that still feels special. It’s versatile too—you can add veggies or swap cheeses to match your taste. What’s your favorite twist on this classic? Share your ideas! This casserole is a crowd-pleaser for good reason: it’s cheesy, hearty, and simply delicious.
Easy to Make, Budget-Friendly, and Freezer-Ready
The cheesy ravioli casserole isn’t just delicious—it’s also incredibly easy to make and budget-friendly, perfect for families and busy cooks alike. Using simple ingredients like ravioli, ricotta cheese, and marinara sauce, this dish delivers big flavor without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s freezer-ready, making it an ideal meal prep option for hectic weeks.
I love preparing this casserole in advance and freezing individual portions for quick dinners later. It saves time and reduces stress while still providing a homemade, comforting meal. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, the cheesy ravioli casserole is versatile, affordable, and always satisfying.
Ingredients for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole with Ricotta Cheese
Core Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the delicious million dollar ravioli casserole, you’ll need just a handful of core ingredients that come together beautifully. The star is fresh or frozen ravioli—cheese-filled works best for that rich, creamy texture. Ricotta cheese adds the perfect creamy layer, while marinara sauce brings a tangy, flavorful punch. Don’t forget shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to top it all off with gooey, golden perfection.
Other essentials include garlic and Italian seasoning for extra flavor depth. These simple ingredients keep the recipe budget-friendly and easy to find at any grocery store. Having these staples on hand means you’re always ready to whip up this crowd-pleasing casserole.
Optional Add-ins and Substitutions
The million dollar ravioli casserole is wonderfully flexible—feel free to customize it with optional add-ins to suit your taste or dietary needs. Consider adding spinach or kale for a boost of greens, or sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor. If you like some protein, cooked Italian sausage or ground beef work perfectly.
For a lighter twist, swap ricotta for cottage cheese or use part-skim mozzarella instead of full-fat. Gluten-free ravioli options are also available to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Step-by-Step
Preparing the Layers Like a Pro
Mastering the perfect million dollar ravioli casserole starts with building your layers like a pro. First, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. Next, add your ravioli in a single layer—no need to boil them first if they’re fresh or frozen!
Spoon over your creamy ricotta mixture, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat the layers until your dish is full, finishing with a generous cheese topping for that irresistible golden crust.
For best results, press each layer gently to remove air pockets and help everything bake evenly. Want an extra-rich texture? Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving—it sets beautifully!
Baking Instructions and Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve the perfect ricotta ravioli bake, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover your casserole dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes to ensure even heating. Then uncover and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
Let your bake rest for 5–10 minutes before serving—this helps the layers settle and makes slicing easier.
For crispy edges, grease your dish well and add a thin layer of Parmesan along the bottom and sides before layering. Want a deeper flavor? Sprinkle Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper between layers.
Using frozen ravioli? No need to thaw—just increase the baking time slightly. Always check for doneness in the center to ensure it’s heated through.
Serving Suggestions for Ravioli Casserole
Side Dishes That Pair Perfectly
Looking to round out your ricotta ravioli bake with the perfect sides? Start with a crisp Caesar salad or a mixed green salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette to add freshness and balance the richness of the dish.
Garlic bread or cheesy pull-apart rolls are always a hit—ideal for soaking up that extra sauce. Want a lighter option? Try roasted vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
For a cozy comfort meal, serve your ricotta ravioli bake with creamy tomato soup or minestrone. The flavors complement beautifully without overpowering the star of the plate.
Planning a larger dinner? Add a simple antipasto platter with olives, artichokes, and marinated peppers to keep things festive.
Ideas for Special Occasions or Meal Prep
Ricotta ravioli bake isn’t just a weeknight lifesaver—it’s also perfect for holidays, potlucks, and make-ahead meals. Hosting a dinner party? Prep the bake the night before and pop it in the oven just before guests arrive. It saves time and tastes amazing fresh out of the oven.
Planning for a busy week? Divide the ricotta ravioli bake into individual containers and freeze for quick, comforting lunches or dinners. It reheats beautifully without losing flavor or texture.
For holidays like Easter, Christmas, or a cozy Sunday brunch, pair it with a salad and sparkling drink to impress with minimal effort.
Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, this dish adapts easily and keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ravioli Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 25 oz / 710g bag frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups / 475ml marinara sauce homemade or store-bought
- 1 cup / 240g ricotta cheese can substitute cottage cheese
- 2 cups / 200g shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup / 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp / 5g Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp / 15ml olive oil for greasing dish
- Optional: 1/2 lb / 225g cooked ground beef or sausage for added protein
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13" baking dish with olive oil.
- Layer the Ingredients:Spread 1/3 of the marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish.Add a layer of frozen ravioli.Spoon dollops of ricotta over the ravioli.Sprinkle mozzarella and a touch of Parmesan.Repeat layers, ending with cheese on top.
- Season and Bake: Sprinkle Italian seasoning evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or cooked sausage for a twist.
- Can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated.
- Freezes well—store in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
- Serve with garlic bread and a green salad.
Have you given our recipe a try?