slow cooker ravioli lasagna recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
slow cooker ravioli lasagna recipe
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best slow cooker ravioli lasagna recipe

I am so excited to share with you my slow cooker ravioli lasagna recipe. This dish has become a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will be in yours too.

The idea of combining the comfort of lasagna with the ease of using a slow cooker may seem unusual at first, but trust me, it’s a game-changer. The result is a dish that’s both familiar and innovative, with the tender pasta and rich sauce melding together in perfect harmony.

My family loves it when I serve this for dinner, and it’s also a great option for potlucks or special occasions. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort from you while still delivering maximum flavor and satisfaction.

Simply layer the ingredients in your slow cooker, cook on low for a few hours, and voila! A delicious meal is ready.

I’ve served this to my kids, who are notoriously picky eaters, and they’ve all given it two thumbs up. It’s also a great option for busy families like mine, as it can be made ahead of time and reheated as needed.

As an added bonus, this recipe is surprisingly healthy given its rich flavors and satisfying portions. With its combination of protein-rich ground beef, fiber-rich vegetables, and whole-grain pasta, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household as well.

Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna

Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna

4.6 from 1534 votes

This slow cooker ravioli lasagna combines layers of frozen cheese ravioli, savory meat sauce, and melted mozzarella for an effortless weeknight dinner. The slow cooker does all the work, yielding a comforting, hearty casserole with minimal prep.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 15 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Lasagna

1 (25 oz) bag frozen cheese ravioli (do not thaw)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent.
2Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3Drain any excess fat.
4Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
5Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
6Spread about 1 cup of the meat sauce evenly over the bottom of the slow cooker.
7Arrange half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce, overlapping slightly if needed.
8Sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/4 cup of Parmesan.
9Repeat the layers: pour half of the remaining sauce over the cheese, then top with the remaining ravioli, the rest of the sauce, and finally the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/4 cup of Parmesan.
10Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
11Cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours, or on high for 1.
5 to 2 hours, until the ravioli are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12The edges should be lightly golden and the internal temperature of the casserole should reach 165°F.
13Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Slow cooker (6 quart or larger)
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use a meatless marinara sauce. You can also add a layer of fresh spinach between the ravioli layers for extra vegetables. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna Works

This slow cooker ravioli lasagna recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a quick weeknight meal that satisfies everyone’s hunger.

Its ease of preparation and impressive presentation make it perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.

Plus, with its combination of protein-rich ground beef and fiber-rich vegetables on whole-grain pasta, you can feel confident serving this dish to your loved ones without worrying about nutritional balance.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

In this recipe, we recommend using fresh or frozen ravioli instead of traditional lasagna noodles. Fresh ravioli adds a delightful texture to the dish, while frozen ravioli provides a more affordable alternative.

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef if you prefer. Just be aware that the flavor profile may change slightly.

Q: How do I store leftover lasagna?

You can store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make this recipe without ricotta cheese?

No problem! If you’re lactose intolerant or simply prefer not to use ricotta cheese, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or even mashed potatoes.

Q: Can I serve this dish as an appetizer or side dish?

This lasagna makes an excellent main course but can also be served as an appetizer or side dish if cut into smaller portions.

Similar Posts