There’s nothing quite like the sound of a bubbling casserole coming out of the oven on a chilly evening. This Beef and Cheese Ravioli Casserole fills your home with rich, comforting aromas that wrap around you like a favorite blanket. It’s quickly become a family favorite, and really, what’s not to love about layers of cheesy goodness and savory beef?
Imagine tender beef and soft cheese ravioli, all nestled together in a warm embrace of marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s like your grandma’s classic lasagna but oh-so-much simplerready in just about 30 minutes! Plus, it uses pantry staples, making it a breeze to whip up when the craving strikes.
I started making this dish back in 2018 when my kids were particularly picky about dinnertime. One evening, they surprised me by actually asking for seconds! The secret? Packed layers of flavor and a sprinkle of extra cheese on top to create that crispy golden crust. After years of testing cozy family meals for the blog, this one is a total winner!
Olivia Farnsworth
Beef and Cheese Ravioli Casserole: Easy and Delicious
Experience the comforting goodness of this Beef and Cheese Ravioli Casserole, a perfect blend of tender beef, melted cheese, and savory marinara. This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Beef is easy to prepare and makes a fantastic main dish for family dinners. For fans of Cheesy Beef Ravioli Lasagna Casserole, this recipe delivers layered flavors and cheesy satisfaction in every bite.
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to warm up while you start cooking.
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef and cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Pour in the marinara sauce, stir everything together, and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
Cook the cheese-filled ravioli according to the package directions, drain, and keep aside.
Lightly grease your casserole dish, then spread a thin layer of the beef and marinara mixture on the bottom.
Arrange a single layer of cooked ravioli over the sauce.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan generously over the ravioli.
Repeat layering the beef sauce, ravioli, and cheeses until all ingredients are used, finishing off with a cheese layer on top.
Season the entire casserole with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 10 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden and bubbly.
Take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves if you like, then serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For best results, use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded. This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking to enhance the flavors. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Why You’ll Love This Beef and Cheese Ravioli Casserole
Quick Dinner Idea: With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a delightful dinner that feels luxurious without all the fuss.
Comforting Flavors: Layers of savory beef and gooey cheese nestled in tender ravioli create a cozy, nostalgic meal that warms the soul.
Family Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, perfect for those hearty family dinners that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Simple Ingredients: All you need are a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, making this a practical choice for a busy weeknight.
Key Ingredients & Tools
Essential Ingredients
1 pound of ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 jar of marinara sauce
1 package of cheese-filled ravioli
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Must-Have Tools
Large skillet for sautéing
Casserole dish
Cooking spoon for mixing
Aluminum foil for baking
How It Works: Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly.
Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add the Marinara: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the beef mixture and stir to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to enrich the flavors.
Prepare Ravioli: While the sauce simmers, cook the cheese-filled ravioli according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Layer It Up: In a greased casserole dish, layer a bit of the beef and sauce mixture first. Add the ravioli, followed by a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with cheese.
Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. Garnish with fresh basil for a lovely touch.
Troubleshooting Tips
Too Dry: If your casserole turns out a bit dry, consider adding some extra marinara sauce before baking.
Cheese Not Melting: Make sure to bake long enough uncovered to achieve that gooey, melty top. If it’s still not melting, your oven temperature might need adjusting.
Overcooked Ravioli: Keep a close eye on your ravioli; you want them tender but not mushy since they’ll cook a bit more in the oven.
Sweet Serving Suggestions
Comforting Pairing: Serve your casserole with a fresh green salad and warm garlic bread for that classic Italian touch.
Cozy Leftovers: This dish makes fantastic leftovers, perfect for a quick lunch the next day. Just reheat in the oven or microwave!
Tip
Details
Prep Ahead
You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and assemble the casserole when you’re ready to bake!
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes beautifully!
Nutritional Note
This Beef and Cheese Ravioli Casserole is not just a delightful treat but also a balanced meal, providing protein from the ground beef and essential nutrients from the marinara sauce. It’s cozy comfort food that can be part of a wholesome dinner without feeling guilty!
Expert Says
Using beef and cheese ravioli in a casserole not only enhances flavor but also introduces a satisfying texture contrast. The combination of protein from the beef and calcium from the cheese offers a balanced meal, making this dish both hearty and nutritious for family dinners.
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The Journey to My Perfect Beef and Cheese Ravioli Casserole
After quite a few attempts, I’ve finally perfected my Beef and Cheese Ravioli Casserole. Each trial was an adventure, like the time I accidentally added way too much garlic and my family couldn’t stop laughing! Now, this comforting dish is rich, creamy, and the perfect hug on a chilly evening.
FAQs ( Beef and Cheese Ravioli Casserole )
How do I prepare this dish for a crowd?
To serve a larger crowd, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. You can also bake multiple casseroles at once, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is heated through and bubbly.
Can I use frozen ravioli in this recipe?
Yes, frozen ravioli will work well in this meal. There’s no need to thaw them before layering; they will cook through in the oven while absorbing the sauce flavors. Just ensure to add a bit of extra sauce for moisture.
How can I make this a vegetarian dish?
To make this meal vegetarian, substitute the beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini. You can also use a meat substitute for added protein while keeping the cheesy goodness intact.
What sides should I serve with the casserole?
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a light antipasto platter also makes for great accompaniments, enhancing the dining experience.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a perfect weeknight meal, this Beef and Cheese Ravioli Casserole will charm your taste buds and your kitchen! In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a bubbling, cheesy delight that fills the air with warmth and comfort.
Feel free to mix it up! Swap in ground turkey or add your favorite veggies for a twist. And if you have leftovers, they reheat beautifully in the oven a little trick I picked up from my own family gatherings. Trust me, your loved ones will be coming back for more!
I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Did you grow up with a similar dish? Share your photos or memories, and don’t forget to save this recipe for your next family dinner. Cooking is all about making connections, after all! Enjoy every bite!
With a passion for wholesome cooking inspired by family traditions, I create healthy, simple recipes focused on sourdough, shrimp, chicken, and balanced meals for everyday wellness.
Every recipe here is tested in my kitchen using U.S. measurements and easy-to-find ingredients, so you can cook confidently.
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