Introduction
Imagine the delight of having lasagna and ravioli in a single mouthful. The Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is just that – a combination of two Italian classics twirled into a fuss-free, hearty meal. If you’re in the mood for some Italian comfort food that needs minimal effort but promises a power-packed flavor, look no further!
Why Make This Recipe
The Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is the epitome of convenience. It’s a one-pot dish that doesn’t compromise on the authentic Italian flavors. This recipe doesn’t require constant checking, and the crockpot does the bulk of the work while you can take care of other chores. Moreover, it’s the perfect dish to serve a crowd or for a cozy family dinner.
How to Make Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
Ingredients
– Ground beef or Italian sausage (1 pound)
– Marinara sauce (1 jar, 24 oz)
– Diced tomatoes, drained (1 can, 14.5 oz)
– Frozen cheese ravioli (1 package, 25 oz)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups)
– Ricotta cheese (1 cup)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup)
– Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions
1. Brown your chosen meat (beef or Italian sausage) in a skillet over medium heat. Make sure it’s fully cooked before draining the excess grease.
2. Mix the cooked meat with marinara sauce and the drained diced tomatoes in a large bowl. Season this mix with salt, pepper and Italian seasoning.
3. Now, it’s time to layer your ingredients in the crockpot. First, spread a layer of the meat sauce. Over this, layer the frozen ravioli. Do a dollop of ricotta cheese next and sprinkle some mozzarella cheese over it. Repeat these layers, ending with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on the top.
4. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4 hours. The final dish should have melted and bubbling cheese.
5. For serving, garnish the Crockpot Raviolo Lasagna with fresh basil if you like. Serve it hot and enjoy the gooey texture of the dish!
How to Serve Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
Serve the Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish the dish with a sprig of fresh basil or additional Parmesan cheese.
How to Store Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
To store the remaining Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna, place it in airtight containers and refrigerate. It can last up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
Always brown the meat properly before adding it to the crockpot. Also, make sure you drain off the extra fat to avoid a greasy final product. Additionally, use quality cheese for maximum flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Variation (If any)
This is a versatile recipe and you can make multiple variations. You can switch the type of meat or use a combination of beef and sausage. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms for an additional crunch.
FAQs
1. Can I use freshly made ravioli instead of frozen ones?
Yes, you can use freshly made ravioli. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use other types of cheese like cheddar or gouda, as long as they melt well.
3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this dish. Simply omit the meat and add more vegetables.