If you’re craving the comforting richness of lasagna but want something effortless to prep and just let it cook itself, this Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Combining the ease of frozen ravioli and the luscious layers of a traditional lasagna, this dish fills your slow cooker with bubbling sauce, melty cheese, and tender spinach, all melding together into one irresistible, cheesy masterpiece. It’s hands-off, family-friendly, and perfect for any day you want a hearty, home-cooked meal without fussing over noodles and multiple pans.
Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe: Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential—each one brings a special touch that makes the flavor pop and the texture just right. From the savory ground beef to the layers of creamy cheeses and fresh spinach, this recipe balances meatiness, creaminess, and freshness perfectly.
- 1 lb ground beef: Adds a rich, savory base and protein that pairs beautifully with the cheeses.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce: Provides a classic, tangy tomato flavor that ties all the layers together.
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli: The star ingredient, delivering soft pasta pockets filled with cheese, making layering a breeze.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to gooey perfection, giving the lasagna its signature stretchy texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a nutty, savory finish and a golden crust when cooked.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creamy richness and balances the tomato sauce’s acidity.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: Brings a pop of color and a subtle fresh flavor that lightens the dish.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic layer of flavor without overpowering.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Offers a sweet, herbaceous note reminiscent of classic Italian cooking.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds earthy, slightly bitter undertones that complement the tomato sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the ingredients.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
How to Make Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep things from getting greasy. While it’s still warm, season with garlic powder, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper – this step infuses your meat with flavor that shines through the layers.
Step 2: Prepare the Crockpot
Use nonstick cooking spray to coat the bottom and sides of your slow cooker. This simple act will prevent the cheesy lasagna from sticking and ensure your masterpiece slides out easily when it’s time to serve.
Step 3: Layer the Sauce and Ravioli
Begin by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce across the bottom of the crockpot to create a flavorful base. Then arrange half of the frozen cheese ravioli evenly over the sauce—no need to thaw, frozen works perfectly to keep the layers distinct.
Step 4: Add Ricotta and Beef
Next, spoon half of the ricotta cheese gently over the ravioli, creating a creamy barrier before adding half of the cooked ground beef. Layering these components carefully ensures every bite melds taste and texture seamlessly.
Step 5: Incorporate Spinach and Sauce
Scatter a layer of fresh, chopped spinach over the meat to add brightness and nutritional goodness. Pour about half of the remaining marinara sauce over the spinach, spreading it evenly so every bit bubbles with tomatoey goodness during cooking.
Step 6: Mozzarella and Repeat
Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce layer to bring that quintessential cheesy melt. Then, repeat the entire layering process—start with the remaining ravioli, then ricotta, beef, spinach, sauce, and finish with the final cup of mozzarella cheese.
Step 7: Final Touch and Cooking
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the very top for a hint of salty nutty flavor. Cover your crockpot, set it to low heat, and let it cook for 4-5 hours. By the end, the ravioli will be tender, and the cheese melted into a bubbly, golden delight.
How to Serve Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe, a sprinkle of fresh basil or a dash more Parmesan cheese right before serving adds a fresh, aromatic pop that complements the rich, savory layers perfectly. Sometimes, a few red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick if you like a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread to soak up every last bit of marinara goodness. Roasted vegetables or a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can also offer a refreshing contrast to the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or simply mix things up, serve individual portions scooped into small bowls garnished with microgreens or a drizzle of olive oil. For a fun twist, try layering in your favorite sautéed mushrooms or swap out spinach for kale for a robust flavor upgrade.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 3-4 days, and the flavors actually deepen after a day or two! Just cover tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven to avoid overcooking the pasta. Cover with foil if reheating in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes. Microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between helps keep it evenly heated.
FAQs
Can I use another type of ravioli for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheese ravioli is classic, you can swap in spinach ravioli, meat-filled, or even mushroom ravioli for a different flavor profile. Just adjust cooking time to ensure the ravioli cooks through.
Do I need to thaw the frozen ravioli before layering?
Nope! One of the beauties of this crockpot recipe is that you layer the ravioli frozen. They cook perfectly in the slow cooker, absorbing all those luscious flavors as they soften.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the ground beef and add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. You might also add lentils or a plant-based meat substitute to keep it hearty and filling.
How thick should the layers be in the crockpot?
Try to keep the layers reasonably even so everything cooks uniformly, but no need to be precise. The sauce will spread as it simmers, melding the layers beautifully—this recipe is very forgiving.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but you’ll need a larger crockpot or make two batches. Cooking times may increase slightly, so keep an eye on the tenderness of the ravioli and cheese melt.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is truly a game changer when you want all the deliciousness of homemade lasagna without the traditional hassle. It’s easy, filling, and perfect for busy days or relaxed weekends. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll be a staple in your dinner rotation. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 5 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is a comforting and easy-to-make layered casserole combining frozen cheese ravioli, ground beef, ricotta, mozzarella, and marinara sauce slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot. It requires minimal effort and delivers rich, cheesy, and hearty flavors perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Meat and Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
Cheeses
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and season the beef with garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Set the seasoned beef aside.
- Prepare the Crockpot: Spray the bottom and sides of the crockpot with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking during cooking.
- First Sauce Layer: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the crockpot to create the base layer.
- Layer Ravioli: Place half of the frozen cheese ravioli over the marinara sauce layer, spreading them evenly.
- Add Ricotta Cheese: Spoon half of the ricotta cheese on top of the ravioli and spread gently to cover.
- Add Ground Beef: Evenly distribute half of the cooked ground beef over the ricotta layer.
- Add Spinach: Sprinkle a layer of fresh chopped spinach over the beef layer to add freshness and nutrients.
- Pour Sauce: Pour about half of the remaining marinara sauce over the spinach and spread it evenly to cover the layers.
- Add Mozzarella Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce layer.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process starting with the remaining ravioli, followed by the remaining ricotta cheese, ground beef, spinach, marinara sauce, and end with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top mozzarella layer for extra flavor.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low heat for 4 to 5 hours, or until the ravioli are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the ravioli lasagna hot. Optionally, garnish with extra basil or Parmesan cheese for enhanced taste and presentation.
Notes
- Ensure to layer ingredients evenly for proper cooking and flavor distribution.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage if preferred.
- If fresh spinach is unavailable, frozen spinach (thawed and drained) can be used as an alternative.
- Cooking time may vary based on your crockpot model; check tenderness of ravioli before serving.
- To reduce sodium, opt for a low-sodium marinara sauce or adjust salt accordingly.
