Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna

Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna offers a delicious twist on traditional lasagna by using frozen ravioli instead of noodles. The slow cooker does all the work, layering savory meat sauce, melted mozzarella, and creamy Parmesan to create a comforting, cheesy dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a hearty Italian meal without the hassle.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 jar (24 oz) spaghetti sauce
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Stir in the spaghetti sauce, diced tomatoes, dried basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
3. Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spread a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.
4. Add a layer of frozen ravioli on top of the sauce. Then, layer more sauce over the ravioli, followed by a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
5. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the ravioli is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
• Total Time: 4-6 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground beef and substitute with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or any vegetables of your choice for a delicious vegetarian lasagna.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy version of this comforting dish.
• Add Ricotta: For an extra creamy layer, add a few spoonfuls of ricotta cheese between the layers of ravioli.
• Meat Lovers: Incorporate cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni along with the ground beef for a more robust, meaty flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
   Yes, you can use fresh ravioli, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Fresh ravioli will cook faster than frozen, so check for tenderness around 3-4 hours of cooking.
2. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
   Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner substitute for ground beef without compromising flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the layers ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Then, cook it in the slow cooker the next day.
4. Can I add more cheese?
   Absolutely! You can add more mozzarella or even experiment with other cheeses like provolone, fontina, or ricotta for different textures and flavors.
5. Can I use jarred marinara sauce instead of spaghetti sauce?
   Yes, marinara sauce works just as well and can offer a different flavor profile.
6. How do I prevent the ravioli from sticking together?
   Since the ravioli is frozen, it should not stick together when layered with the sauce. However, make sure to evenly spread the sauce and cheese between each layer.
7. What can I serve with Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna?
   Serve this dish with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.
8. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze leftover ravioli lasagna in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.
9. Can I cook this on high instead of low?
   Yes, if you need it to cook faster, you can cook it on high for 2-3 hours, but the low-and-slow method allows the flavors to meld better.
10. How do I know when it’s done?
    The ravioli should be soft and tender when done, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly. If you’re unsure, check the texture of the ravioli with a fork.

Conclusion

Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that brings all the comfort of traditional lasagna with less effort. By using frozen ravioli, it simplifies the preparation while still delivering a rich, cheesy, and flavorful meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a busy weeknight, this slow-cooker recipe makes enjoying a classic Italian dish as simple as layering ingredients and letting the magic happen. Enjoy the perfect blend of convenience and flavor!

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