Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna is a delightful fusion of two beloved Italian dishes – ravioli and lasagna. This recipe simplifies the lasagna-making process by using frozen ravioli as a substitute for the traditional lasagna noodles and ricotta filling. It’s an incredibly convenient and delicious meal that can be prepared in a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy days or when you want a hearty, comforting dinner with minimal effort. The first time I made this dish, it quickly became a family favorite. The rich, flavorful meat sauce combined with the cheesy ravioli and gooey melted mozzarella on top creates a meal that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna is sure to impress.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon chopped garlic
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 (24-ounce) jars prepared pasta sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 (25-ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet.
Cook and stir the beef, breaking it up into crumbles, until it is browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Add Garlic and Seasonings:
Add 1 tablespoon of chopped garlic, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper to the skillet with the browned beef.
Stir well to combine, ensuring the garlic and seasonings are evenly distributed.
Drain the Grease:
Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet and discard it.
Stir in Pasta Sauce and Herbs:
Stir in the 2 (24-ounce) jars of prepared pasta sauce, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano into the ground beef mixture.
Mix thoroughly to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 2: Assemble the Lasagna in the Slow Cooker
Layer the Meat Sauce and Ravioli:
Ladle a generous layer of the meat sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent sticking.
Add a layer of frozen cheese ravioli (about half of the package).
Ladle another layer of meat sauce over the ravioli.
Repeat the layers until all the ravioli and meat sauce are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top.
Step 3: Cook the Lasagna
Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
Set the slow cooker to Low and cook for 3 to 5 hours. The ravioli should be tender, and the flavors should be well combined.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle with Mozzarella:
After 3 to 5 hours, sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the ravioli and meat sauce mixture.
Melt the Cheese:
Continue cooking on Low for an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve:
Once the cheese is fully melted, turn off the slow cooker.
Serve the ravioli lasagna hot, straight from the slow cooker, with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Version:
Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use a combination of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.
Different Cheese Options:
Swap out the mozzarella for a different cheese like provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Twist:
Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the meat sauce for a spicy kick.
Extra Veggies:
Incorporate more vegetables such as diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped spinach into the meat sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
Pasta Sauce Alternatives:
Use a homemade marinara sauce or a different variety of store-bought pasta sauce like tomato basil or garlic herb for a unique taste.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna is a delicious and convenient dish that brings together the best elements of ravioli and lasagna. Its ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. The rich, flavorful meat sauce pairs perfectly with the cheesy ravioli, and the melted mozzarella on top adds a delightful finishing touch. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences. The result is a hearty, comforting meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna and make every meal a special occasion.
