Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole Recipe
When you’re looking for a comforting meal that practically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole is a game-changer.
I love how easy it’s to throw everything together and let the slow cooker do its magic. It fills my home with an irresistible aroma that makes my mouth water. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Friends and family can’t resist a hearty meal with cheesy goodness and savory flavors.
The layers of ravioli and sauce meld together beautifully, creating a satisfying dish. Cleanup’s a breeze too, since I only need one pot.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this casserole never disappoints. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole
When it comes to whipping up a comforting meal, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. For the Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole, you’ll want to gather a few pantry staples and some fresh produce. This dish is all about convenience and flavor, so let’s get everything lined up before we plunge into the cooking.
The best part? Most of these ingredients can be found in your local grocery store, and a few might already be hanging out in your kitchen. Let’s check out what you’ll need.
Ingredients:
- 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, as you prepare to gather these ingredients, keep in mind that flexibility is key in the kitchen. If you’re not a fan of beef ravioli, you can easily swap it out for cheese or even spinach ravioli if you’re feeling adventurous.
And hey, if you don’t have fresh parsley on hand, dried parsley will do just fine. Just remember, fresh herbs bring a burst of flavor that can elevate your dish, but we’re all about working with what we have.
How to Make Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole
Alright, let’s plunge into the delicious world of slow cooking with this Ravioli Casserole. It all starts with a little bit of prep work. Grab 1 tablespoon of olive oil or vegetable oil and heat it in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat.
Once that’s nice and warm, toss in 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1/2 cup) along with 1 large garlic clove, finely chopped. You’ll want to stir these around for about 4 minutes, or until the onion becomes tender and fragrant. Honestly, if you can resist the urge to nibble on the onion and garlic while they cook, you deserve a medal.
Once your kitchen is filled with that heavenly aroma, it’s time to stir in a 26-ounce jar of three-cheese pasta sauce, a 15-ounce can of tomato sauce, 2 cups of water, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix it all together and let it simmer for a minute.
Now, this is where the magic happens. Grab your 6-quart slow cooker and start layering. Pour 1 cup of that beautiful sauce mixture into the bottom, then add 1 package of frozen beef ravioli. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Repeat with the second package of ravioli and finish with another cup of cheese. Pour the remaining sauce mixture over everything—yes, it’s going to look like a cheesy, saucy masterpiece.
Now, cover your slow cooker and let it work its magic on the LOW heat setting for 4 to 5 hours. This is the part where you can kick back, relax, and maybe even watch that show you’ve been meaning to catch up on.
Or, you know, stare at the wall and think about life choices. When the time is up, sprinkle 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it up, and you’ll have a dish that’s not only comforting but also feels like a warm hug on a plate. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole, there are plenty of easy substitutions and variations to contemplate.
For instance, try using different types of ravioli, like cheese or spinach, to change the flavor profile. You can also swap out the beef ravioli for chicken or even a vegetarian option.
Instead of traditional mozzarella, experiment with provolone or fontina cheese for a unique taste. If you’re short on time, you could use store-bought pasta sauce instead of making your own.
Don’t forget to add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. With these simple tweaks, your casserole will never get boring!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole
Serving Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. For a quick meal, I often pair it with a fresh garden salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the casserole.
If I’m in the mood for something heartier, garlic bread is a fantastic choice; it’s perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. I also like to serve some steamed broccoli or green beans on the side for a pop of color and nutrition.
And if I want to impress, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top of the casserole before serving really elevates the dish. Enjoy your meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole, keep a few tips in mind to enhance the dish.
First, feel free to mix and match the types of ravioli; cheese, spinach, or even mushroom can add a nice twist. If you prefer a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
To save time, chop your onions and garlic ahead of time. I also recommend letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after cooking; it helps the layers set beautifully.
Finally, don’t skip the fresh parsley; it adds a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your delicious creation, and don’t hesitate to share it with family and friends—they’ll love it!