Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole Recipe
If you’ve ever craved a hearty meal that practically cooks itself, you’ll love this Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole recipe. It’s my go-to for busy weeknights when I want something delicious without the fuss.
I adore how the layers of ravioli and sauce meld together, creating a comforting dish that warms the soul. Plus, it’s versatile; you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients.
The best part? I can set it and forget it, letting my slow cooker do all the work. When dinner’s ready, I’m greeted by amazing aromas and a satisfying meal that everyone enjoys.
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole
When it comes to whipping up a comforting meal, the Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole is a winner in my book. It’s loaded with cheesy goodness and savory flavors that just make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Plus, all you need to do is gather a few ingredients, toss them in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.
Seriously, if you can open a jar and chop an onion, you can make this dish. Let’s explore the ingredients we need for this mouthwatering casserole.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 large garlic clove, finely chopped
- 1 (26-ounce) jar three-cheese pasta sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 (25-ounce) packages frozen beef ravioli
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (about 8 ounces)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Now, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility.
Don’t have frozen beef ravioli? No problem! You can substitute it with cheese ravioli or even a different kind of pasta if you’re feeling adventurous. The three-cheese sauce adds a creamy richness that pairs perfectly with the ravioli, but you can switch it up with your preferred pasta sauce too.
Just imagine the possibilities! And if you’re not a parsley fan, you can leave it out or swap it for another herb like basil or oregano. It’s all about making this dish your own, so feel free to get creative. Happy cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole
Alright, let’s plunge into the delicious world of making Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s like a warm hug on a plate.
To kick things off, grab your trusty skillet and pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil or vegetable oil. Heat it up over medium heat—just enough to get things sizzling—and toss in 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1/2 cup). You’ll want to stir it around for about 4 minutes until the onion is tender and starts to smell heavenly.
Then, add in 1 large garlic clove, finely chopped, and let it mingle for a minute or two. It’s moments like these that make your kitchen feel like the coziest spot in the world, right?
Now, here comes the fun part. Stir in 1 (26-ounce) jar of three-cheese pasta sauce, along with 1 (15-ounce) can of tomato sauce, 2 cups of water, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir, and let those flavors dance together.
Once your sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble your casserole in the slow cooker. Start by pouring 1 cup of that glorious sauce mixture into the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker.
Then, add 1 package of frozen beef ravioli—don’t worry about thawing it first—and sprinkle on 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese (about 8 ounces). Layer on the second package of ravioli, followed by the remaining cup of cheese.
Finally, pour the rest of your sauce over the top. It’s like building a cheesy, saucy mountain of goodness. Cover it up, set your slow cooker to LOW, and let it work its magic for 4 to 5 hours.
As the hours tick by, your home will fill with the most mouthwatering aroma. It’s almost torturous waiting, but trust me, it’s worth it.
Once the cooking time is up, take off that lid and sprinkle with 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
And there you have it—your own Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole. Serve it up, dig in, and enjoy every comforting bite. Just don’t forget to pat yourself on the back for creating this masterpiece. Cooking really isn’t so scary, is it?
Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole Substitutions & Variations
While the Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole is already a comforting classic, there are plenty of substitutions and variations that can take it to the next level.
For a lighter option, try using spinach or cheese ravioli instead of beef. You can also swap out the three-cheese pasta sauce for marinara or pesto for a different flavor profile.
If you’re feeling adventurous, add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra veggies. Experimenting with different cheeses, like ricotta or provolone, can enhance the dish too.
Don’t hesitate to mix and match based on what you have on hand!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole
After you’ve explored some exciting variations for your Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole, you might be wondering what to pair it with for a complete meal.
A crisp side salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully, balancing the richness of the casserole. You could also serve garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls to soak up any extra sauce.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus make a fantastic addition.
Finally, a light dessert, such as sorbet or fruit salad, rounds off the meal perfectly, keeping it fresh and enjoyable.
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole turns out perfectly, I’ve got some helpful tips to share.
First, don’t rush the sautéing of the onion and garlic; it builds flavor. If you want extra texture, try adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms. For a bit of spice, sprinkle in red pepper flakes.
Always layer your ingredients as instructed for even cooking. If you prefer a thicker casserole, reduce the water slightly.
Finally, let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving—it helps everything set. Enjoy your delicious creation, and feel free to get creative with toppings!