Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

If you’re searching for a show-stopping, comforting, and utterly delicious dish to bring friends and family together, the Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is your new secret weapon. This dish takes everyone’s favorite Italian flavors and elevates them into a creamy, cheesy, layered masterpiece that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. Imagine tender ravioli layered with rich ricotta, gooey mozzarella, zesty marinara, and fragrant herbs all baked until bubbly and golden. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and indulgence that will have everyone asking for seconds and the recipe. Get ready to fall in love with Italian comfort food all over again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh, accessible ingredients is all it takes to create this luscious Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna Recipe. Each component plays a vital role in crafting the perfect harmony of flavors and textures—from the pillowy ravioli acting as your “pasta sheets” to the creamy cheeses adding richness and cheesy depth.

  • 1–2 lbs cheese ravioli: The heart of the dish, ravioli offers a quick and delicious pasta base with cheese inside, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
  • 3 cups marinara sauce: A bright, tangy tomato sauce that adds vibrant color and a hint of acidity to balance the richness.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Classic and melty, mozzarella delivers that ooey-gooey goodness everyone loves.
  • 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, ricotta adds luxurious texture and moisture to every layer.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan brings a salty, nutty punch that sharpens all the flavors.
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the entire dish with fresh herbal notes and adds lovely flecks of green.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder: Garlic deepens the savory profile without overpowering the delicate cheeses.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs marries perfectly with the tomato sauce and cheeses for that signature Italian taste.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that highlight every ingredient’s natural flavor.
  • Optional: 1 lb cooked ground beef or Italian sausage: For those craving a meaty twist, perfectly seasoned meat complements the creamy layers beautifully.

How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Ravioli

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C), the perfect temperature to meld flavors and create that irresistible bubbly cheese crust. If you’re using frozen ravioli, cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente—tender but still with some bite—then drain and set it aside. This step ensures your ravioli won’t become mushy after baking.

Step 2: Mix Your Cheesy Herb Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, freshly chopped parsley, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture is a game-changer—it adds creaminess, depth, and a delightful herbaceous note that makes each layer sing.

Step 3: Build Your Layers with Love

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. This prevents sticking while giving the dish a juicy foundation. Next, layer half of your cooked ravioli over the sauce, smoothing them out evenly. Then spoon half of the ricotta mixture on top, spreading gently so every ravioli gets a creamy crown. Add a generous drizzle of marinara sauce and sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella. Repeat this layering process with the remaining ravioli, ricotta, marinara, and mozzarella cheeses, creating a symphony of flavors and textures.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover your assembled lasagna with foil and pop it into the oven for 25 minutes. This keeps the moisture locked in and lets the flavors meld beautifully. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This final stage allows the cheese on top to bubble, brown, and develop that irresistible golden crust we all crave.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once baked, let your lasagna sit for a few minutes. This rest allows the layers to settle and makes serving much easier. Before serving, sprinkle some extra fresh parsley on top to add a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous lift that perfectly complements the rich, cheesy layers.

How to Serve Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is not just pretty; it adds a mild peppery freshness that complements the creamy ricotta and tangy tomato sauce. For a bit of a spicy twist, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving. These little touches bring the dish from amazing to unforgettable.

Side Dishes

This rich and cheesy lasagna pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. Think a crisp Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm focaccia can round out the meal, perfect for soaking up every last bit of marinara and cheese that escapes your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins for a charming presentation that feels personal and indulgent. Alternatively, you can add layers of sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables in between the ravioli for a veggie-packed version. Presentation isn’t just about looks here—the layering shines on every plate, making your Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna Recipe a centerpiece worth savoring.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna Recipe stays delicious in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready for a comforting meal later, you’ll be happy to have these ready-made layers of cheesy goodness waiting.

Freezing

This lasagna also freezes beautifully. For best results, assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual. Freezing it after baking is possible, but the texture of the ravioli might be a bit softer upon reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and the cheese is again wonderfully melted. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions but keep an eye to avoid overcooking, which can cause the ravioli to become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use homemade ravioli instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade ravioli will add a wonderful personal touch and freshness to your Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna Recipe. Just be sure to cook them until al dente before assembling the dish, as overcooking in the oven could make them too soft.

Is it necessary to cook the ravioli before assembling?

If you use frozen ravioli, cooking them first is important to ensure they reach the perfect texture. Fresh ravioli can be layered raw if you prefer, especially if your marinara sauce has enough moisture to cook the pasta through during baking.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply skip the optional meat and focus on layering the cheeses and sauce. You can even add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to boost flavor and nutrition without losing any of the indulgence.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese can be a good substitute—just blend it slightly for a smoother texture. Alternatively, mascarpone or cream cheese offer richer options, though they’ll create a slightly different taste and consistency.

How spicy is the Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna Recipe?

This recipe is mild and family-friendly by default, focusing on savory and herby flavors. You can easily add red pepper flakes or a spicy Italian sausage for a kick, but it’s deliciously gentle as is—perfect for all palates.

Final Thoughts

Making the Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cheesy hug with every bite. It effortlessly turns simple ingredients into a decadent dish brimming with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this recipe never fails to deliver joy and satisfaction. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to this unforgettable Italian-inspired delight—it’s truly worth every bite.

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Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 86 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna is a comforting, easy-to-make baked pasta dish that layers cheesy ravioli with a seasoned ricotta mixture, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, offering all the flavors of classic lasagna with less fuss and fewer steps.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 12 lbs cheese ravioli (refrigerated or frozen)
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 lb cooked ground beef or Italian sausage


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the lasagna layers later.
  2. Cook Ravioli: If using frozen ravioli, cook it according to the package directions until it reaches al dente texture. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, mixing well to create a flavorful cheese blend.
  4. Layer Sauce: Spread a thin, even layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add moisture.
  5. Assemble First Layer: Arrange half of the cooked ravioli over the marinara sauce layer. Then evenly spread half of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli.
  6. Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon a generous layer of marinara sauce over the ricotta, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
  7. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining ravioli, ricotta mixture, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese to create two layers of this rich lasagna.
  8. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and cheese to melt thoroughly.
  9. Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Rest and Garnish: Let the lasagna rest for a few minutes after baking to set. Garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

  • You can add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage for a heartier version by layering it with the ravioli and ricotta mixture.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or fresh basil to the ricotta mixture.
  • Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture if preferred, but adjust the amount because it tends to be wetter.
  • Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps it set, making it easier to cut and serve without falling apart.
  • If using refrigerated ravioli, you may skip the precooking step depending on the brand and thickness but check package instructions.

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