Description
The “Ravioli Delight Casserole” is a bountiful, savory casserole that transforms ordinary ingredients into a spectacular dinner perfect for gatherings or a comforting family meal. Featuring layers of cheesy ravioli, hearty meat sauce, and rich, creamy cheeses, this dish promises a mouthwatering and satisfying experience in each bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic over medium heat until the beef is fully browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Sauce to Meat: Mix in the marinara sauce and crushed tomatoes with the beef, combining well. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, blend the ricotta cheese, sour cream, and softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Layer the Casserole: Start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of the prepared dish. Then, arrange half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. Next, spread the cheese mixture evenly over the ravioli and sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Add another layer of meat sauce and repeat the ravioli layer. Finally, top with the remaining meat sauce and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes, until the cheeses are bubbly and golden. Let stand a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes