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Decadent Beef and Cheese Ravioli Casserole Recipe

Decadent Beef and Cheese Ravioli Casserole Recipe

5 from 32 reviews

This Decadent Beef and Cheese Ravioli Casserole is a comforting and hearty Italian-inspired dish featuring layers of tender cheese-filled ravioli, savory ground beef in marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole combines rich flavors and creamy textures baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Sauce

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Pasta and Cheese

  • 1 package (about 9 ounces) cheese-filled ravioli
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish (optional)

  • Fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it reaches the perfect temperature while you prepare the casserole.
  2. Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add marinara sauce: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
  4. Prepare the ravioli: Cook the cheese-filled ravioli according to the package instructions, usually boiling for 3-5 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
  5. Assemble the casserole: Grease a casserole dish lightly with cooking spray or oil. Spread a thin layer of the beef and marinara sauce mixture on the bottom. Arrange a single layer of cooked ravioli on top. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses.
  6. Repeat layering: Continue layering with the remaining beef sauce, ravioli, and cheeses, finishing with a cheese layer on top. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
  7. Bake covered: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes to heat and meld the flavors.
  8. Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Rest and serve: Take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and aromatic flavor if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Use fresh ravioli if available for the best texture and flavor.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the beef sauce for extra nutrition.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free ravioli and verify the marinara sauce complies with gluten-free standards.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef casserole, cheese ravioli, baked pasta, Italian casserole, ground beef recipe, cheesy ravioli bake