Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today—Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole! This dish is the epitome of comfort food and has been a family favorite for years. I remember the first time I made it; my friends came over for a cozy dinner party, and when they took their first bite, the room erupted with “Mmm”s. It disappeared faster than I could say “seconds!” This casserole is a gooey, cheesy dream come true—perfect for those nights when you want something hearty and delicious without spending all day in the kitchen.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. It uses frozen ravioli, which means you can whip this up in no time, and the layers of cheese, marinara, and the intrigue of cream cheese just elevate it to a new level. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that makes even picky eaters go back for more. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll understand why it’s called Million Dollar!
What’s in Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?
Frozen Cheese Ravioli: The star of the show! These little pasta pillows are filled with a savory blend of cheese that brings incredible texture and taste to the casserole. I prefer using good quality brands where you can actually taste the cheese, like Buitoni or the store’s artisan line.
Marinara Sauce: A tangy and hearty base that brings everything together. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade is always an option, but don’t underestimate the power of a good jarred sauce, like Rao’s or Amy’s.
Cream Cheese: Yes, you heard me right! This is the secret ingredient that makes your casserole unbelievably creamy and rich. I like to use full-fat, but you could opt for light if you’re watching your calories.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Because there’s no such thing as too much cheese! The gooey, melted mozzarella on top is what makes this dish so dreamy. For extra flavor, I often mix in some smoked mozzarella when I have it on hand.
Parmesan Cheese: Adding some grated Parmesan brings depth and a lovely umami kick. Freshly grated is always best, but you can use pre-grated if that’s what you have.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that boosts the flavor of the dish without overpowering it. I always sprinkle a little more on top before baking for that fragrant aroma while it cooks!
Fresh Parsley: Just a sprinkle for garnish! Not only does it brighten up the dish but adds a lovely fresh note to the rich casserole.
Is Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Good for You?
Absolutely! While we can’t exactly call it a health food (hello, cheese!), it does have some perks. The ravioli provides carbohydrates that give you energy, while the cheese offers a more substantial source of calcium and protein.
Of course, moderation is key here; if you’re watching your carbs, it might be a good idea to serve this alongside a big green salad. Also, consider using low-fat cream cheese and a whole wheat ravioli if you want to lighten it up a bit. So you see, while it’s a comfort food classic, you can tweak it to be a little friendlier on the waistline!
Ingredients List
– 2 (25-ounce) packages of frozen cheese ravioli
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves 8-10 people (perfect for a party or leftovers for days!).*
How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for getting that golden, bubbly top!
2. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the marinara sauce until it’s smooth and combined. Is anyone else getting excited just thinking about it?
3. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the cream cheese-marina mixture (about 1 cup) on the bottom. This prevents sticking!
4. Layer half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce. You don’t have to worry about thawing the ravioli—just lay them in straight from the freezer.
5. Spoon another layer of the cream cheese mixture over the ravioli. Top with half of the mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
6. Repeat the layers: another batch of ravioli, the remaining cream cheese sauce, and top it all off with the rest of the mozzarella and the grated Parmesan.
7. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Take it out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes, then dive in! Garnish with fresh parsley for that lovely pop of color.
Variations and Extra Tips!
Let’s get creative! Here are a few ideas to put your own spin on this classic:
– **Add Veggies:** Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added in between the layers for extra nutrition and flavor!
– **Meat Lover’s Option:** Toss in some cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken to make it heartier.
– **Cheese Lovers:** Feeling wild? Go ahead and layer some ricotta cheese in there too!
And don’t forget—the leftovers (if there are any) make for a super easy lunch the next day! Just reheat in the microwave, and you’re good to go.
I can’t wait for you to try this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. It’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner. Trust me, this recipe is a game-changer and is bound to become a staple in your home too! Let me know how it turns out and any special tweaks you made. Happy cooking!
