Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! I’m super excited to share one of my all-time favorite comfort food recipes: Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole! This dish holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy family dinners where laughter and delicious food filled the air. I still remember when my mom first made it for us on a chilly autumn night, and the aroma wafting from the oven just hugged us with warmth.
Now, what makes this casserole “million dollar” worthy? It’s layered with cheesy goodness, hearty ravioli, and a flavor explosion that’ll make your taste buds sing! Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also super easy to whip up, which is perfect for those busy weekdays or lazy Sundays. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delectable recipe!
What’s in Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?
Ravioli: This is the star of the show! I love using cheese-filled ravioli for that extra indulgent touch, but any kind you like works just fine. Go for fresh or frozen; just make sure it’s your favorite!
Marinara Sauce: A rich tomato sauce brings everything together, and it’s just the right amount of tangy. I usually reach for my favorite store-bought brand to save time, but feel free to use homemade if you’re feeling passionate!
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds that luxurious texture to the casserole. It helps keep everything moist and provides a delicious layer of flavor. I opt for part-skim ricotta to keep things a tad lighter.
Shredded Mozzarella: Because no cheesy casserole is complete without a generous gooey layer of melted cheese on top! I always choose whole milk mozzarella for that perfect melt factor.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this before baking gives a delightful cheesy crust that’s utterly irresistible.
Italian Seasoning: Just a dash of this herby blend will elevate the flavors. You can either use a store-bought mix or make your own with dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
Is Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Good for You?
Well, let’s be real; while this casserole is pure comfort, it’s not just a health food powerhouse. However, it does offer some tasty benefits!
Ravioli: If you choose whole grain or vegetable ravioli, you’ll pack in some fiber! Yep, those little pasta pockets can give your meal some bulk.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy delight is a source of protein and calcium, which is always a good thing for our bones. Plus, it adds a touch of creaminess without going too overboard.
Now, on the flip side, it’s worth noting that this dish is best enjoyed in moderation because of its creamy and cheesy richness. It’s definitely more of a treat for gatherings than an everyday dish, but hey, we all need a little indulgence every now and then!
Ingredients List
– 12 ounces cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
– 24 ounces marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
(P.S. This recipe serves about 6 hungry people!)
How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let’s get that oven nice and toasty!
2. In a baking dish, pour about half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Spread it out evenly.
3. Place half of the ravioli on top of the sauce, making sure they’re not overlapping too much. We want every pocket to get that delicious sauce love.
4. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese over the ravioli, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Now, layer on half of the mozzarella cheese. Can you already smell the goodness?
6. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients: the rest of the marinara sauce, ravioli, ricotta, and finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top for that lovely golden crust.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden!
8. Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy.
Serving Suggestions for Your Million Dollar Dish
This casserole is great on its own, but if you want to take it up a notch, pair it with a fresh side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette or garlic bread for that extra crunch! You can also customize this dish by adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms for an extra touch of nutrition and flavor!
I genuinely can’t wait for you to try this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole; it’s pure comfort food bliss! Please give it a go and let me know how it turns out. I promise you’ll be pulling out your forks for seconds – maybe even thirds! Happy cooking, my friends!
