Description
A deeply savory, ultra-comforting casserole that layers saucy marinara, creamy ricotta, frozen ravioli, and lots of melting mozzarella.
Ingredients
Scale
- 900 g (2 lb) frozen cheese ravioli
- 960 ml (4 cups) marinara sauce, divided
- 450 g (1 3/4 cups) ricotta cheese
- 400 g (4 cups) shredded mozzarella, divided
- 60 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan, divided
- 1 large egg (optional, for ricotta binding)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 450 g (1 lb) Italian sausage, browned and drained (optional)
- 30 g (1 cup) fresh spinach or basil, chopped (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Mix 450 g (2 cups) marinara with the minced garlic and cooked sausage (if using) in a bowl. In a separate bowl, combine 450 g (1 3/4 cups) ricotta, 60 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan, 1 large egg, 1/2 tsp (3 g) salt, and 1/4 tsp (1 g) black pepper until smooth. Stir in 30 g (1 cup) chopped fresh spinach or basil if using. Set aside.
- Spread 120 ml (1/2 cup) marinara evenly on the bottom of a 6–7 qt crockpot to prevent sticking.
- Arrange one layer of frozen ravioli (about 300 g / 2 cups) in a single layer, overlapping slightly. Spoon and spread one-third of the ricotta mixture (about 150 g / 1/2 cup) and 120 ml (1/2 cup) marinara over the ravioli, then sprinkle 100 g (1 cup) shredded mozzarella. Repeat twice for three layers total.
- Pour remaining 360 ml (1 1/2 cups) marinara over the top and cover. Cook on LOW for 135 to 165 minutes or until the ravioli are tender.
- Remove lid and sprinkle remaining 100 g (1 cup) mozzarella and 15 g (2 Tbsp) Parmesan on top. Cook uncovered on HIGH for 10–15 minutes to melt cheese and reduce excess moisture. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For the best results, use frozen ravioli straight from the freezer and avoid stirring during the cook. This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad and garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 165 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg