Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Preparing the Meat Sauce

1. Cook Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add Sauces and Seasoning: Stir in the marinara sauce, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat.

Preparing the Cheese Mixture

4. Mix Cheeses: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, and softened cream cheese. Mix until well combined and smooth.

Assembling the Casserole

5. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Layer the Casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Arrange half of the frozen cheese ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the ravioli, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining meat sauce, ravioli, cheese mixture, and shredded cheeses.

Baking

7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
8. Cool and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Serving

9. Serve: Serve the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole hot, with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a decadent and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The layers of cheese, meat sauce, and tender ravioli create a rich and flavorful casserole that everyone will love. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!