Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna : best recipe

If you’re searching for the perfect weeknight meal that is both rich in flavor and easy to prepare, look no further than Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna. This dish combines the indulgent layers of classic lasagna with the simplicity of using ravioli instead of traditional pasta sheets. The result? A creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal that tastes like it took hours to make—but only requires about 30 minutes of prep time!

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, feeding a hungry family, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize it with different types of ravioli, add protein for extra heartiness, or sneak in some veggies for added nutrition. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can make it at home.

Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna

1. Rich and Creamy Layers – Every bite is loaded with cheese, marinara sauce, and soft, pillowy ravioli.
2. Quick and Easy Assembly – No need to boil pasta sheets or spend hours layering noodles. Ravioli does all the work!
3. Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor – With store-bought or homemade ravioli, high-quality cheese, and a great sauce, you get restaurant-worthy taste with little effort.
4. Easily Customizable – Add protein like Italian sausage or ground beef, swap in different ravioli fillings, or add vegetables for a nutritious twist.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep – You can assemble this dish in advance and bake it when needed, making it a lifesaver for busy nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna, you’ll need the following:

Base Ingredients

• 1 (25 oz) package cheese ravioli – Fresh or frozen works well.
• 2 cups marinara sauce – Use homemade or store-bought (Rao’s and Classico are great options).
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Whole milk mozzarella melts best.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – Adds creaminess to the layers.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated gives the best flavor.

Seasonings & Herbs

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the overall taste.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Brings classic Italian flavors.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley – For freshness and garnish.
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions

• ½ cup cooked ground beef or Italian sausage – Adds protein and depth of flavor.
• 1 cup sautéed spinach or mushrooms – For a vegetarian boost.

How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the lasagna cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Ravioli

If you’re using frozen ravioli, cook them according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. If using fresh ravioli, no need to pre-cook!

Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

1. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Add a single layer of ravioli over the sauce.
3. Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the ravioli.
4. Sprinkle with a layer of mozzarella cheese.
5. Add another layer of marinara sauce.
6. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to trap moisture.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
3. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Ravioli Lasagna

• Choose Quality Ravioli: Fresh ravioli adds a gourmet touch, but frozen works well too. Try spinach and ricotta ravioli for extra flavor!
• Use a Rich Sauce: A high-quality marinara makes all the difference. Try adding a splash of red wine to enhance the depth.
• Add Protein for a Hearty Dish: Ground beef or sausage makes it more filling, but shredded rotisserie chicken is another great option.
• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add layers of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: This allows the cheese to set, making it easier to cut into neat portions.

Variations of Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna

1. Three-Cheese Ravioli Lasagna

Swap the cheese ravioli for three-cheese ravioli and increase the ricotta layer for an extra cheesy bite.

2. Meat Lovers’ Ravioli Lasagna

Use beef or sausage ravioli instead of cheese ravioli and layer in crumbled cooked Italian sausage for a heartier version.

3. Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Version

Use low-carb marinara and opt for homemade almond flour ravioli to reduce the carb content.

4. Spicy Kick Version

Add red pepper flakes and use spicy Italian sausage for a bold and flavorful variation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For freezing, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat

• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Question

Can I Use Homemade Ravioli Instead of Store-Bought?

Yes! Homemade ravioli will make the dish even more special. Just ensure they are al dente before layering.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?

Yes! Try mixing in Fontina, Gouda, or Provolone for a richer, deeper flavor.

Is This Dish Freezer-Friendly?

Yes! Assemble the lasagna and freeze before baking. When ready, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 1 hour.

Final Thoughts

Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna is the ultimate combination of simplicity, comfort, and indulgence. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The rich layers of cheese, tender ravioli, and flavorful marinara create a dish that truly tastes like a million bucks!

So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that will become a staple in your home. Happy cooking! 🍽️