Name: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Delight Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground beef (substitute ground turkey for a lighter option); 24 ounces Pasta sauce (choose a no added sugar variety for healthiness); 1 teaspoon Garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic for stronger flavor); 24 ounces Frozen cheese ravioli; 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese (low-fat recommended for a lighter version); 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred)

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Introduction

This Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is a simple and delicious twist on traditional lasagna, perfect for busy weeknights. It combines layers of cheesy ravioli, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese, all cooked low and slow for an effortless, comforting meal.

A close-up view of a black bowl filled with ravioli pasta in tomato sauce. The dish shows about four large square ravioli pieces with yellow pasta edges that are slightly ruffled. The ravioli sit on a thick red tomato sauce mixed with small chunks of ground meat and herbs scattered on top. The sauce looks hearty and chunky with visible tomato bits and tiny green herb leaves sprinkled around. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option)
24 ounces pasta sauce (choose a brand with no added sugars for a healthier choice)

1 teaspoon garlic powder (fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger flavor)
24 ounces frozen cheese ravioli

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (low-fat works well for a lighter version)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated recommended)

Instructions

Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and return the beef to the skillet.
Step 2: Stir in the pasta sauce and garlic powder, then let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 3: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the crockpot.
Step 4: Add half of the frozen cheese ravioli in an even layer over the sauce.
Step 5: Spoon another layer of meat sauce over the ravioli.

Step 6: Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli and meat sauce, making sure the final layer is meat sauce.
Step 7: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
Step 8: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the ravioli are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 9: Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Tips & Variations

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley to enhance flavor and presentation.
Use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder for a more vibrant taste.

For a vegetarian alternative, substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute.
Try mixing in some Italian seasoning to the meat sauce for added depth.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish also freezes well; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

This image shows a close-up of a black bowl filled with a rich tomato sauce mixed with ground meat. On top, there are four golden yellow ravioli pieces with ruffled edges, each slightly glossy from sauce and garnished with small green herbs. The thick sauce is chunky with bits of meat and tomato evenly spread around the ravioli, giving a hearty and textured look. The black bowl contrasts well with the warm colors of the food, and the background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh ravioli can be used, but reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking. Monitor the crockpot closely to ensure the ravioli stays tender.

Is it necessary to brown the beef before adding it to the crockpot?

Browning the beef first enhances flavor and texture by developing caramelized notes and removing excess fat. It’s highly recommended but you can skip it if short on time.