Slow Cooker Beef and Cheese Ravioli Lasagna

by

Slow Cooker Beef and Cheese Ravioli Lasagna

Tried and loved—twice! This recipe is a hit with families and friends, and it’s easy enough to prepare for a busy weeknight or to impress at a weekend potluck. With layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and tender cheese ravioli, this dish brings all the comfort of classic lasagna—without the hassle of boiling noodles.

⭐ Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, coarsely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

Cheese Mixture

  • 1 container (15 oz) whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons freshly chopped parsley (plus extra for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Pasta & Cheese Layers

  • 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

🍳 Preparation Steps

1. Make the Meat Sauce

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened (about 4–5 minutes).
  • Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned.
  • Drain excess fat.
  • Stir in the marinara sauce, mix well, and remove from heat.

2. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

  • In a separate bowl, combine:
    • Ricotta cheese
    • Egg
    • Fresh parsley
    • Salt and pepper
  • Stir until smooth and well combined.

3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker

  • Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  • Add 3/4 of the frozen ravioli in a single layer.
  • Top with half of the ricotta mixture, then half of the mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
  • Repeat layers with remaining ravioli, ricotta mixture, and most of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
  • Finish with a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.

4. Cook

  • Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours, or until the ravioli is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve

  • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley just before serving.
  • Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, hearty comfort!

💡 Tips and Variations

  • Lighten it up by substituting ground turkey for beef.
  • Add a kick of heat with 1 teaspoon red chili flakes in the meat sauce.
  • Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added veggies and texture.
  • If you prefer a crispier top, transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes before serving.

🧊 Storing Leftovers

  • Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.

📝 Final Thoughts

This slow cooker ravioli lasagna is not just a recipe—it’s a celebration of classic comfort food made easy. Perfectly layered, unbelievably cheesy, and so simple, it’s destined to become a regular in your rotation.

Try it once, and like Joseph, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Leave a Comment