Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and filling baked pasta dish that brings together tender ravioli, rich tomato sauce, and gooey layers of melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal that feels simple but special, thanks to its creamy texture and familiar flavors that everyone loves.
I love making this casserole on a busy weekday because it’s easy to prepare ahead of time and then pop into the oven when I’m ready. The combination of cheesy ravioli with a slightly crispy top is always a crowd-pleaser in my house. Plus, the sauce seeps into every bite, making it extra delicious and warm on a cold night.
My favorite way to serve Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread to scoop up all the cheesy sauce. It’s a great meal for family dinners or when friends stop by, and I always get asked for the recipe afterward. It’s truly one of those dishes that feels like a hug on a plate.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Ravioli: This is the star of the dish. Cheese ravioli adds a creamy touch, while meat-filled offers more heartiness. If you want to skip frozen, fresh ravioli works but watch the cooking time.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess and helps bind the casserole. Cottage cheese is a great low-fat substitute, just blend it a bit to smooth out the texture.
Italian Sausage: Adds flavor and texture. You can swap it for ground beef or turkey for a leaner option, or leave it out to keep things vegetarian.
Mozzarella & Parmesan: Mozzarella melts beautifully and gives that stretchy cheese pull. Parmesan adds a sharp, salty note. If you don’t have Parmesan, pecorino Romano is a nice alternative.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade. A sauce with herbs and a hint of garlic will boost the flavor. Tomato basil or arrabbiata sauces are tasty variations.
How Do You Build Layers That Bake Up Perfectly?
Layering is key to even flavor and texture in this casserole. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with sauce on the dish bottom to prevent sticking and add moisture.
- Place ravioli gently so they don’t break.
- Spread ricotta cheese dollops evenly—don’t overmix or it’ll get runny.
- Add cooked sausage or protein in small bits for even distribution.
- Top with mozzarella to keep everything melted and gooey.
- Repeat layers for rich flavor in every bite.
Covering with foil at first keeps moisture in, so ravioli stay tender. Removing the foil later lets cheese brown nicely. Let the casserole rest after baking for easier serving and fuller flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size for layering the ravioli and cheese evenly.
- Large pot – for boiling the frozen ravioli until just tender.
- Skillet – handy for cooking and crumbling the Italian sausage if you add it.
- Mixing bowl – to combine ricotta cheese and spices smoothly.
- Spoon or spatula – great for spreading layers evenly in the casserole dish.
- Aluminum foil – helps keep the casserole moist during baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Italian sausage for ground turkey or beef for a milder or leaner meat option.
- Use spinach or kale mixed into the ricotta for a fresh, green boost of nutrients and flavor.
- Add mushrooms or caramelized onions to the layers for extra depth and texture.
- Try pepperoni slices on top before baking for a classic pizza-inspired twist.
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package (25-30 oz) frozen ravioli (cheese or meat-filled)
- 2 cups marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, 25 minutes baking covered, plus 10-15 minutes baking uncovered to get that cheesy golden top. Allow an extra 5 minutes for resting before serving. Total time: roughly 55 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Cook Ravioli:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil. Boil the frozen ravioli according to package directions until they’re just tender (al dente). Drain well and set aside.
2. Make Ricotta Mixture and Cook Sausage:
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, half of the Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using Italian sausage, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Place half of the cooked ravioli on top. Dollop and gently spread half the ricotta mixture across the ravioli. Sprinkle half the cooked sausage over that, then half the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers once more: ravioli, ricotta mixture, sausage, marinara sauce, mozzarella.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Top everything by sprinkling the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the casserole. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. You want the cheese on top to be melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
5. Rest and Serve:
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes so it sets for easier serving. Garnish with extra fresh parsley if you like. Serve warm, perhaps with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a full meal.
Can I Use Fresh Ravioli Instead of Frozen?
Yes! Just be careful not to overcook fresh ravioli when boiling—usually 1-2 minutes is enough. Since fresh ravioli cooks faster, keep an eye on the baking time so it doesn’t get mushy.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake covered for about 30-35 minutes until heated through, then uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes for a bubbly top.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the cheese melty and the ravioli tender.
Can I Make This Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the Italian sausage and add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and texture.
