Description
Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna Layers is a decadent, cheesy baked dish combining layers of frozen cheese ravioli, savory ground beef marinara, and a rich blend of cream cheese, ricotta, and mozzarella. This easy-to-make layered casserole transforms simple ingredients into an indulgent comfort food perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- Italian seasoning, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Assembly
- 25 oz frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare it for baking the lasagna.
- Cook the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat, then add the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
- Prepare cheese mixture: In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Layer the lasagna: Using a baking dish, start by spreading a layer of the beef and marinara sauce mixture. Add a layer of frozen cheese ravioli, then spread a layer of the cheese mixture on top, and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. Repeat layering all ingredients, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese.
- Add Parmesan and bake: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the lasagna is heated through.
- Rest and serve: Allow the lasagna to sit for 5 minutes after baking to set. Serve warm and enjoy this rich, comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for variation.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add red pepper flakes when simmering the marinara.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps the layers set and makes cutting easier.
- Using fresh grated Parmesan cheese enhances flavor and melts better than pre-grated varieties.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just increase baking time by 5-10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
