If you’re craving a dish that’s both indulgent and bursting with bold flavors, the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe is going to become one of your all-time favorites. This casserole isn’t just your typical layered pasta bake; it’s a sensational marriage of perfectly cooked ravioli, smoky andouille sausage, tender potatoes, and sweet corn, all bathed in a luxurious buttery sauce with a Cajun twist. Every bite brings together a comforting, hearty texture with just the right zing of seasoning, making this casserole an absolute crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe is simpler than you might think. Each item plays a key role, whether it’s adding depth, creaminess, or vibrant freshness to the final dish.
- Large Eggs: Boiled until firm for rich, creamy bites that complement the hearty components.
- Smoked Sausage: Andouille or kielbasa brings smoky, spicy flavor that elevates the casserole.
- Baby Red Potatoes: Halved and boiled to tender perfection, they add a satisfying bite and mild earthiness.
- Sweet Corn on the Cob: Cut into thirds, the corn bursts with natural sweetness and bright color.
- Lemon: Half juiced and half cut into wedges to balance flavors with citrusy brightness.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped for a fresh, herbal touch that cuts through the richness.
- Bay Leaves: Impart subtle aromatic notes during boiling.
- Fine Sea Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning throughout the cooking process.
- Unsalted Butter: The base for the luscious sauce that ties everything together.
- Garlic and Yellow Onion: Finely minced and grated to infuse savory depth in the sauce.
- Cajun Seasoning, Old Bay, Smoked Paprika, Cayenne Pepper: A bold mix of spices that give this casserole its signature kick.
- Lemon Juice: Adds fresh acidity to brighten the sauce.
- Chicken Broth: Enhances the sauce with umami and moisture.
- Hot Sauce: A couple of teaspoons bring gentle heat and complexity.
- Brown Sugar: Just enough to balance the spice with a hint of sweetness.
How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Stockpot and Butter Sauce
Start by filling a large stockpot with salted water, then add bay leaves for subtle aroma and bring to a rolling boil. While waiting for the water to boil, get a saucepan ready to create the rich butter sauce – it’s the heart and soul of this casserole.
Step 2: Create the Flavor-Packed Butter Sauce
Gently melt the unsalted butter on low heat to avoid browning, then stir in the finely minced garlic and grated onion until fragrant. Next, combine the Cajun seasoning, Old Bay, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, fresh lemon juice, chicken broth, hot sauce, and brown sugar. Let this sauce gently simmer for about two minutes so all the flavors meld into a luxuriously silky blend. Keep the sauce warm until ready to use.
Step 3: Cook Potatoes, Sausage, and Corn
Drop the halved baby red potatoes into the boiling water and let them simmer for 10–12 minutes until tender but still holding shape. Then, add in the sliced smoked sausage and continue cooking for 5 more minutes, letting the smoky juices infuse the broth. Finally, toss in the corn pieces and boil for 4–5 minutes until just sweet and tender. These layers of cooking times ensure each ingredient is perfectly done without losing texture.
Step 4: Boil Eggs and Combine Ingredients
While the potatoes, sausage, and corn cook, boil your eggs separately for 8–9 minutes, making sure they are hard-cooked, then cool them quickly under cold water and peel. Once all components are ready and drained, transfer potatoes, sausage, corn, and eggs to a large mixing bowl. Pour about half of the warm butter sauce over everything for an immediate burst of flavor.
Step 5: Toss and Meld Flavors
Gently toss the ingredients so the sauce fully coats each piece without breaking the eggs. Then transfer the mixture back into the now empty stockpot (off the heat) and allow it to sit for 2–3 minutes — this step encourages the flavors to marry beautifully.
Step 6: Finish with Seasoning and Freshness
Add the remaining butter sauce along with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. Arrange lemon wedges around the pot or casserole dish for an inviting presentation and an option to add zesty brightness at the table.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe family-style either on a large tray or in individual bowls. Don’t forget to provide extra sauce on the side as well as crusty bread — perfect for soaking up every last flavorful drop.
How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Some fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a burst of green and a light herbal note that brightens each mouthful. Lemon wedges are your friendly sidekicks offering an optional tang that many guests love to squeeze over the dish for a fresh citrus kick that balances richness.
Side Dishes
This casserole already boasts a little bit of everything, but if you want a simple side, a crisp green salad with a sharp vinaigrette works wonders by cutting through the buttery goodness. Alternatively, serve with crunchy garlic bread to add textural contrast and to scoop up the savory sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the casserole in a rustic cast-iron skillet straight from stove or oven, which keeps it warm and looks stunning. You can also layer the ingredients in a deep casserole dish and sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before broiling briefly for a golden crust variation of the classic recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The slow melding of flavors means the casserole tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent dish for busy weeknights.
Freezing
This casserole is freezer-friendly too! Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. It can stay frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is in a covered skillet over low heat or in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, just until warmed through to maintain moisture and avoid drying out the tender potatoes and sausage. Add a splash of broth or water if reheating in the skillet to keep it nice and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ravioli in Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh ravioli works beautifully and cooks quickly. Just be mindful to add it near the end of boiling to avoid overcooking, and adjust times based on packaging instructions.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes, you can swap the smoked sausage for plant-based sausage or smoked tempeh, and use vegetable broth. The spices and butter sauce will keep the dish flavorful and satisfying.
How spicy is the casserole?
The casserole has a moderate kick thanks to Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne, and hot sauce. You can always adjust the cayenne and hot sauce amounts to suit your heat preference.
Can I prepare parts of this dish in advance?
Definitely. You can boil the potatoes, sausage, corn, and eggs earlier in the day and refrigerate separately. When ready, just warm, toss with the sauce, and serve.
What type of bread pairs well with this dish?
Crusty, rustic breads like a baguette or sourdough are perfect for soaking up the buttery, spicy sauce while adding a crunchy texture contrast.
Final Thoughts
The Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe is a comforting, flavor-packed meal that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to grab a plate. Its layers of smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and vibrant corn in a rich, spicy butter sauce create a truly memorable dinner experience. Once you make this at home, you’ll understand why it’s called “million dollar” — it’s pure treasure on your table. Give it a try and prepare to delight your family and friends with every bite!
Print
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a flavorful, hearty dish combining boiled eggs, smoked sausage, tender baby potatoes, and sweet corn, all tossed in a spicy, buttery Cajun-infused sauce. This comforting casserole is perfect for family-style serving and includes zesty lemon and fresh parsley for brightness.
Ingredients
Proteins
- 8 Large Eggs, boiled 8–9 minutes and peeled
- 1¼ pounds Smoked Sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced into ½-inch coins
Vegetables & Produce
- 1 pound Baby Red Potatoes, halved
- 3 ears Sweet Corn on the Cob, cut into thirds
- 1 large Lemon, half juiced and half cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped
- ½ small Yellow Onion, grated
- 6 cloves Garlic, finely minced
Seasonings & Spices
- 2 Bay Leaves
- 1½ tablespoons Fine Sea Salt (for boiling water), plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons Old Bay Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika
- ¼ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Brown Sugar
Liquids & Others
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice, fresh squeezed
- ¼ cup Chicken Broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 teaspoons Hot Sauce
Instructions
- Prepare boiling water and butter sauce: Fill a large stockpot with salted water and add bay leaves. Bring it to a boil. Meanwhile, prepare a saucepan for the butter sauce.
- Make the spiced butter sauce: Gently melt the butter in the saucepan. Stir in the minced garlic and grated onion until fragrant. Add Cajun seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, fresh lemon juice, chicken broth, hot sauce, and brown sugar. Simmer for 2 minutes and keep the sauce warm.
- Cook potatoes, sausage, and corn: In the boiling water, cook the halved baby potatoes for 10 to 12 minutes until tender. Add the sliced sausage and cook for another 5 minutes, then add the corn pieces and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes.
- Boil and peel eggs: Separately boil the eggs for 8 to 9 minutes until hard-boiled. Cool them under cold water and peel.
- Combine ingredients: Drain the cooked potatoes, sausage, and corn, then transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the peeled boiled eggs. Pour in half of the prepared butter sauce and gently toss everything together.
- Meld flavors off heat: Return the mixture to the hot stockpot (off the heat) for 2 to 3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Add finishing touches and serve: Stir in the remaining butter sauce, chopped fresh parsley, freshly ground black pepper, and lemon wedges. Serve family-style on a tray or in bowls with extra sauce and bread for dipping.
Notes
- Boiling the eggs separately ensures they cook evenly without overcooking other ingredients.
- If preferred, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- Adjust the hot sauce and cayenne pepper quantities to suit your preferred spice level.
- Add fresh parsley at the end for a vibrant flavor and color.
- This dish pairs excellently with crusty bread for dipping into the buttery sauce.
