Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

Indulging in a delightful homemade meal doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With our Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna recipe, you can create a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of lasagna with the simplicity and ease of ravioli. Perfect for those busy weeknights, this recipe utilizes the magic of a slow cooker, ensuring a flavorful result every time.

Growing up, Sundays were always pasta nights at my grandma’s house. I remember the smell of her lasagna wafting through the air as our family gathered around the table. In an effort to capture that same aroma without spending all day in the kitchen, I combined her secret sauce with store-bought ravioli and let the crockpot do its magic. This recipe has become a family favorite, bringing back those sweet memories with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish saves you time without compromising on taste, perfect for busy schedules. Its simplicity doesn’t take away from its delightful, heartwarming flavors. You’ll appreciate the ease of using premade ravioli to speed up the preparation, and the lazy layers blend beautifully during the slow cooking process. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is fuss-free and foolproof.

Ingredients Notes

To deliver bold flavors, use fresh or good-quality jarred marinara sauce. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the sauce, adding freshness. Spinach ravioli can be a fun and nutritious twist, and feel free to layer in veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Begin by lightly spraying the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom to create a flavor base.

Step 2

Layer half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce. Don’t worry about defrosting them — the slow cooker will handle that for you.

Step 3

Spread a layer of ricotta cheese over the ravioli and top with a portion of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 4

Add a layer of your favorite sautéed vegetables or cooked ground meat if desired. Repeat with another layer of sauce, the remaining ravioli, and finish with the cheeses.

Step 5

Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the ravioli is tender and the cheese is bubbling and golden. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving so it can firm up slightly.

Storage Options

To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Alternatively, you can freeze individual portions for up to a month. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Variations & Substitutions

For a lighter version, use low-fat cheeses and whole wheat ravioli. Spinach or mushroom ravioli provides an excellent vegetarian alternative. For a spicier dish, consider adding crushed pepper flakes or spicy sausage. The beauty of this meal is its adaptability to various dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a slice of garlic bread for a well-rounded meal. It’s suitable for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings. Serve directly from the crockpot for easy cleanup or portion it onto plates for a more formal presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen? Absolutely, fresh ravioli will work just as well in this recipe, although the cooking time may be slightly reduced. Just ensure they are evenly distributed and submerged in sauce to prevent drying out.

Do I need to cook the ground meat beforehand? Yes, it’s best to cook any meat before adding it to the crockpot to ensure it’s fully cooked and to enhance the flavor development as it simmers with the other ingredients.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese? If you’re not a fan of ricotta or don’t have any on hand, cottage cheese or even a béchamel sauce can work as substitutes, offering similar creaminess with a slightly different taste and texture.

Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

This easy crockpot ravioli lasagna combines classic flavors in a comforting dish that requires minimal preparation but delivers maximum flavor.

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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 4 hours hours

Total Time: 4 hours hours 10 minutes minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1 pound ground beef lean
• ▢ 24 oz ravioli frozen, cheese-filled
• ▢ 24 oz marinara sauce
• ▢ 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
• ▢ 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ▢ 1 tsp garlic powder
• ▢ 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ▢ 0.5 tsp salt
• ▢ 0.5 tsp black pepper
• ▢ 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese grated, for serving
• ▢ 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Set aside.
• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the crockpot.
• Layer half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce.
• Top ravioli with half of the cooked beef, half of the ricotta mixture, and a third of the mozzarella cheese.
• Repeat layers with remaining ingredients, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese.
• Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until cooked through and cheese is melted.
• Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving.

Notes

This recipe can be adjusted with the addition of vegetables or different types of ravioli for a unique twist.