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
- 1–2 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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the lasagna layers later.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon a generous layer of marinara sauce over the ricotta, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.