If you’ve ever wished for a lasagna that practically cooks itself, then look no further than this delightful Slow Cooker Lasagna with Ravioli. Combining the tender goodness of ravioli with the rich, hearty flavors of lasagna, this dish is a quick-to-prep meal that becomes a family favorite in one bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortlessly Delicious: Minimal prep time makes it perfect for busy days.
- Comfort in a Bowl: Rich, cheesy goodness that’s hard to resist.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or potlucks where impressing is key!
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of ingredients, this Slow Cooker Lasagna with Ravioli comes together seamlessly. Each element has its crucial role, whether adding flavor depth or the perfect gooey texture.
- Frozen cheese ravioli: Choose your favorite variety for a personal touch.
- Olive oil: Enhances the flavor of the beef and prevents sticking.
- Garlic (minced): A small but mighty addition for a robust flavor.
- Ground beef: Provides the hearty base of the dish.
- Spaghetti sauce: Use your favorite for a familiar taste profile.
- Diced tomatoes: Adds a fresh, juicy component to the sauce.
- Italian seasoning: Brings a hint of Mediterranean magic.
- Ground black pepper: A subtle kick that balances the flavors.
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded): Delivers that classic, melty characteristic everyone loves.
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to play around with flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary requirements. It’s as flexible as your imagination allows!
- Vegetarian Twist: Skip the meat and heap on the veggies for a greener take.
- Mushroom Medley: Incorporate mushroom-filled ravioli for added earthiness.
- Spicy Kick: Use spicy Italian sausage instead of beef for extra zing.
How to Make Slow Cooker Lasagna with Ravioli
Step 1: Sizzle and Brown
In a large skillet over medium heat, start by adding olive oil and minced garlic. Once the garlic releases its aromatic scent, mix in the ground beef. As it browns, take a moment to appreciate the mouthwatering fragrance swirling through your kitchen. Drain off the excess fat once completely browned.
Step 2: Sauce Symphony
Add the spaghetti sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and let this lovely medley of flavors mingle. These villa-worthy aromas are sure to make the wait worthwhile!
Step 3: Layer the Love
Begin assembling in a 6-quart slow cooker by spreading a third of the sauce at the bottom. Layer half of the ravioli, sprinkle generously with a cup of cheese, and repeat the sequence once more. Top it off with the remaining sauce and mozzarella, creating an irresistible golden crown.
Step 4: Slow and Steady
Cover your slow cooker and let the lasagna magic happen on low for 3-4 hours. This is where patience pays off; you’ll be rewarded with a warm, bubbling dish, promising togetherness and joy.
Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Lasagna with Ravioli
- Perfect Cheese Layering: Scatter mozzarella with a generous hand to ensure a gooey top layer.
- Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thin, simmer it a bit longer before layering for that perfect texture.
- Ravioli Choice: Experiment with different ravioli fillings for a surprising twist each time.
- Slow and Steady: Avoid peeking while it cooks; let the slow cooker work its magic uninterrupted.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Lasagna with Ravioli
Garnishes
Top off your comforting dish with sprigs of fresh basil or parsley. A light dusting of Parmesan cheese can also add a nutty finish, elevating each flavor-packed bite.
Side Dishes
A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent companions. Crusty garlic bread is always a winning choice, perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive occasion, consider serving individual portions in ramekin dishes. Or go rustic with wooden serving boards accompanied by small bowls of marinara for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any remaining lasagna in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh and delightful for up to three days, making it a fabulous meal prep option.
Freezing
For longer storage, this dish can be frozen. Seal it in a freezer-safe container and enjoy its cheesy goodness for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Reheat your Slow Cooker Lasagna with Ravioli in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s bubbling and warmed through. Alternatively, microwave servings in short intervals, ensuring even heating.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh ravioli can be substituted; just reduce the cooking time slightly as they tend to cook faster than frozen ones.
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Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
By omitting the ground beef and using a meatless sauce, this dish easily becomes vegetarian-friendly.
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How can I make the dish less salty?
Use low-sodium canned tomatoes and adjust seasoning during the final steps to reduce the saltiness.
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What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
Try a mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different cheesy texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Lasagna with Ravioli is not just a meal but a delightful experience that brings people together. Let these flavors dance on your palate and enjoy the compliments that are sure to come your way.
Print
Slow Cooker Lasagna with Ravioli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy and hearty Slow Cooker Lasagna with Ravioli combines the cheesy goodness of traditional lasagna with the convenience of using frozen ravioli and a slow cooker. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, it layers flavorful meat sauce with cheese-filled ravioli, creating a comforting dish with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 (25 oz) bag of frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 tsp garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
Wet Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (24 oz) jar of your favorite spaghetti sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
Cheese
- 4 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics and Brown Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add ground beef. Cook until the beef is fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, then drain excess fat.
- Prepare Sauce: Add spaghetti sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything until well combined and heated through.
- Layer in Slow Cooker: Spread ⅓ of the meat sauce at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Layer half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat with another layer of sauce, ravioli, and cheese.
- Finish and Cook: Spread the remaining sauce evenly over the top layer and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover with lid and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, until hot and bubbly.
Notes
- Feel free to use your favorite variety of frozen ravioli, such as spinach, mushroom, or additional cheese-filled types.
- Using a 6-quart slow cooker ensures ample space for layering; larger cookers work as well.
- This dish can be assembled the night before and refrigerated for easy subsequent cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/8th of the dish)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 1020 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
