Why Make This Recipe
Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is a fantastic dish that combines the classic flavors of lasagna with the ease of a slow cooker. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. With layers of melted cheese and savory meat sauce, this dish is sure to please your family or guests. Plus, its hands-off cooking method means you can set it and forget it!
How to Make Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (24 oz) pasta sauce
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Directions
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain the excess fat.
- Stir in the pasta sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a greased slow cooker, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce.
- Layer half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce.
- Top with half of the remaining meat sauce and half of each type of cheese.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with cheese on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until heated through and cheese is melted.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
To serve Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna, simply scoop out a generous portion onto each plate. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
How to Store Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
If you have leftovers, let the lasagna cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can also freeze it. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap or foil. It will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
- Use a good quality pasta sauce for better flavor.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- If you want a bit of a kick, add some red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for a unique taste.
Variation
You can make this dish vegetarian by using meatless ground beef and adding extra veggies. You can also try different types of ravioli, such as spinach or mushroom, to change up the flavors.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh ravioli, but you might need to reduce the cooking time slightly.
2. Is it necessary to brown the beef first?
Browning the beef enhances the flavor and helps reduce excess fat. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can layer all the ingredients in the slow cooker the night before and store it in the fridge. Just set it to cook in the morning for a delicious dinner later.
Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain the excess fat.
- Stir in the pasta sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a greased slow cooker, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce.
- Layer half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce.
- Top with half of the remaining meat sauce and half of each type of cheese.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with cheese on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until heated through and cheese is melted.