Description
Looking for an easy, comforting, and family-approved dinner? This Crockpot Ravioli Casserole is the perfect weeknight solution. Packed with layers of cheesy ravioli, hearty beef, rich marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella, it’s a no-fuss meal made right in your slow cooker. Just toss in the ingredients, let it simmer, and come home to a warm, satisfying dish everyone will love.
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
-
1½ lbs ground beef
-
1 small onion, finely chopped
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce (use your favorite)
-
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
-
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
-
½ tsp salt
-
½ tsp black pepper
-
1 bag (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli (no need to thaw)
-
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
-
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1½ cups ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese for a lighter option)
For Garnish (Optional):
-
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
-
Red pepper flakes for a little heat
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion until browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes.
Drain excess fat, then add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Sauce and Seasoning
Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Simmer for 3–5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Step 3: Layer in the Crockpot
Spray your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
Start layering the casserole like this:
-
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
-
Add a layer of frozen ravioli (about ⅓ of the bag).
-
Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese over the ravioli.
-
Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
-
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 4: Cook the Casserole
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2.5–3 hours.
The ravioli should be tender, the cheese melted, and everything heated through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, turn off the heat and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
Scoop into bowls or serve with garlic bread and salad for a complete meal.
Notes
Use Frozen Ravioli – No need to thaw; they cook perfectly in the slow cooker.
Layer Thoughtfully – Alternate layers to distribute cheese and sauce evenly.
Don’t Overcook – Too long in the Crockpot can make ravioli mushy. Stick to the recommended times.
Use Fresh Cheese – Freshly grated cheese melts better and has more flavor.
Make It Vegetarian – Skip the beef and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach instead.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (on LOW)
- Cuisine: American Italian