Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna

Welcome to a delightful twist on a classic dish with our Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna. Imagine the rich, comforting layers of traditional lasagna, but with a clever and delicious shortcut. By using ravioli as both the pasta and ricotta layers, this meal is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household, just as it has in ours!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy families and anyone looking for a comforting, hassle-free meal. The use of frozen ravioli eliminates the need for separate ricotta or cottage cheese layers, while the slow cooker method ensures everything is cooked to perfection without the worry of dried-out noodles. Plus, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s as delicious as it is convenient.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium-sized non-stick skillet
• Slow cooker
• Non-stick spray

Ingredients:

• 25 oz. frozen ravioli – DO NOT THAW (I use 5 cheese)
• 1 lb. ground beef (can use mild sausage)
• 1 cup white onion, diced
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. pepper
• 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. dried leaf oregano (not ground)
• 24 oz. marinara sauce (I use Rao’s)
• 8 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups)

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized non-stick skillet set to medium-high heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Add the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Cook until the meat is browned. Don’t drain all the liquid off the meat; keep a few tablespoons in the meat to keep it moist.
2. Spray the slow cooker with non-stick spray.
3. Add half of the marinara sauce to the bottom of the slow cooker.
4. Add HALF of the bag of ravioli on top of that sauce.
5. Add all of the ground beef mixture over the ravioli.
6. Add the remaining ravioli over the meat.
7. Pour over the remaining sauce.
8. Sprinkle over the mozzarella cheese.
9. Place the lid on the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 4 hours.
10. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Success

To ensure the best results, be sure not to thaw the ravioli before adding it to the slow cooker. This helps maintain the texture of the pasta. Additionally, retaining a bit of the cooking liquid in the meat mixture keeps everything moist and flavorful.

Additional Tips or Variations

If you want to mix things up, try using different types of ravioli, such as spinach and cheese or mushroom. You can also swap the ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative for a different flavor profile. Adding a layer of fresh spinach or mushrooms can also enhance the dish with extra nutrients and flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish offers a balanced combination of proteins, carbs, and fats, making it a wholesome meal. The exact nutritional content will vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use fresh ravioli? Frozen ravioli works best because it holds up well in the slow cooker without becoming mushy.
• How can I make this vegetarian? Simply omit the meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
• Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this dish freezes well. Be sure to store it in an airtight container for up to three months.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and eating this Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna as much as we do. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, offering a comforting meal with minimal effort. We’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so feel free to share your experience and any variations you tried. Happy cooking!