Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food for busy days, blending all the cheesy, saucy goodness of classic lasagna with the effortless ease of a slow cooker. This dish bursts with hearty layers of frozen cheese ravioli, flavorful ground beef, and rich marinara, all crowned with ribbons of gooey mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan. What’s not to love? Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want to have a bit of Italy on your dinner table with minimal fuss, this recipe makes it possible. Even better, it’s perfect for prepping ahead, reheats beautifully, and tastes like pure cozy joy — no boiling noodles required!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about how simple but essential each ingredient is for building incredible taste and texture in this Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna. Every layer brings something delightful to the party, and these ingredients combine to create a dish that’s both hearty and harmonious.
- Frozen cheese ravioli: A lifesaver for shortcuts! These little pillows bring wonderful creaminess and act as your “noodles.”
- Ground beef: Adds a hearty, savory layer and soaks up all those Italian herbs for extra flavor.
- Marinara sauce: A good-quality jarred sauce keeps this dish simple but mouthwatering – go with your favorite brand for the best results.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stretch, melt, and classic lasagna flavor in every bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle on each layer gives you a salty, nutty punch that’s pure Italian comfort.
- Garlic powder: Delivers effortless garlicky depth without the chopping.
- Italian seasoning: This blend brings that signature “pizza shop” flavor with every bite.
- Salt: Makes every layer taste lively and seasoned to perfection.
- Black pepper: A little hint of spicy warmth brings all the flavors forward.
- Fresh basil (optional): For a fresh, herby finish on top before serving – it takes the presentation (and the aroma!) up a notch.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Don’t forget it! Helps the lasagna release easily and keeps cleanup a snap.
How to Make Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Start by generously spraying the inside of your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. This step ensures that all those glorious cheesy layers release without any sticking or burning at the edges. Think of it as a little insurance policy for a picture-perfect Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna once you’re ready to scoop and serve.
Step 2: Cook and Season the Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once it’s beautifully seared and fully cooked, drain off any excess fat so your lasagna layers stay melty, not greasy. Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper for a beef mixture that’s bursting with savory flavor. Give it a taste – it should be bold and irresistible!
Step 3: Build the First Layer
Spread just enough marinara sauce on the bottom of your crockpot to cover it. This prevents sticking and lays down the foundation for a saucy, flavorful Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna. Trust me, this layer matters.
Step 4: Layer the Ravioli, Beef, and Cheeses
Arrange a layer of frozen cheese ravioli right over the sauce, fitting them snugly in a single layer (no need to thaw). Top with some of your seasoned beef, spoonfuls of marinara sauce, and generous handfuls of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Let each layer be hearty and crave-worthy. Keep repeating these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final, oozy cheese blanket on top.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Pop the lid on the slow cooker and cook the lasagna on low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. When the house starts to smell like an Italian bistro and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and a bit golden, you’ll know it’s ready. Resist the urge to dig in immediately – turn off the heat and let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes serving neat slices a breeze.
How to Serve Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
Garnishes
A bright sprinkling of chopped fresh basil right before serving adds a pop of color and a fragrant, just-picked touch that really elevates your Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna. You can also shower on a little extra Parmesan for a finishing flourish. If you love a little crunch, a handful of toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes bring fun flavor and texture.
Side Dishes
Pair this comforting main with simple sides to round out the meal. A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while warm garlic bread or buttery breadsticks are perfect for scooping up those extra saucy bits. Roasted or steamed green vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus also complement the dish beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna right in the slow cooker for classic, family-style serving or use a wide spatula to lift out tidy squares onto individual plates. For a twist, spoon portions into mini ramekins for personalized servings at a dinner party. Want a little extra elegance? Serve atop a swirl of fresh marinara and finish with a whole basil leaf.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna has cooled to room temperature, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh and tasty in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the lasagna cool before sealing it to avoid excess condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil and place inside a sealable freezer bag. You can freeze individual servings or larger portions for up to three months. Label with the date, so all you have to do next time is thaw and reheat for a quick, homemade meal.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave individual servings until steaming hot, or place a covered oven-safe dish of lasagna in a 350°F oven for 20–25 minutes. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results. Add a splash of marinara or water to prevent any drying out during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While cheese ravioli keeps things classic, you can use meat- or spinach-filled ravioli for a fun twist and a new layer of flavor. The recipe is very forgiving, so experiment with your favorites.
Is it okay to assemble Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish the night before and refrigerate it, covered. In the morning, just pop the insert into your slow cooker and start cooking. It’s a lifesaver on busy days!
What’s the best crockpot size for this recipe?
A 6-quart slow cooker works perfectly for this Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna and gives you nice, thick layers. If you have a smaller model, you may need to halve the recipe or build thinner layers.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply skip the ground beef and add extra vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini between the ravioli layers. You could also use a plant-based meat alternative.
Can I add more veggies for extra nutrition?
Definitely! For a boost of greens, tuck handfuls of fresh spinach or thinly sliced zucchini between the layers. You can also stir sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers into the beef mixture for added flavor and color.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to make Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna the next time you crave something delicious, family-friendly, and fuss-free. It’s a meal that brings all the best parts of lasagna to your table with a slow cooker’s magic touch. Dig in, share with loved ones, and enjoy every gooey, saucy, cheesy bite!
Print
Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is a delicious twist on traditional lasagna made easy with cheese ravioli and cooked in a slow cooker. Layers of ravioli, seasoned ground beef, marinara sauce, and cheese create a comforting and flavorful dish the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna:
- 1 (25 oz) bag of frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- fresh basil for garnish (optional)
- nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Spray the crockpot: Spray the inside of your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the beef: Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, then drain excess fat. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Layer ingredients: Spread marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer ravioli, beef, sauce, and cheeses. Repeat layers, finishing with a cheese layer on top.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until hot and bubbly. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with basil.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef.
- Add fresh spinach between ravioli layers for extra veggies.
- Try meat or spinach-filled ravioli for variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
