Crockpot Easy Ravioli Lasagna
The ultimate no-fuss comfort meal that delivers all the saucy, cheesy goodness of classic lasagna without the extensive prep time. This ingenious recipe uses cheese-filled ravioli as a brilliant substitute for layering noodles and ricotta, creating a hearty, satisfying meal that practically prepares itself while you tackle your day.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker/Crockpot
- Cooking Spray
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 packages (20 oz each) refrigerated cheese ravioli
- 2 jars (24 oz each) marinara sauce robust, herb-infused variety for maximum flavor
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage cooked and drained (optional)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese divided
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach optional, for added nutrition
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Lightly coat your slow cooker with cooking spray. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce (about 1/2 cup) on the bottom of the crockpot.
- Arrange a single layer of ravioli over the sauce, slightly overlapping each piece. Cover with a third of the remaining marinara sauce, followed by a third of your cooked ground meat (if using), and a quarter of both cheeses.
- Sprinkle half of your spinach over the cheese layer.
- Repeat the layering process two more times: ravioli, sauce, meat, cheeses, and remaining spinach. Ensure each ravioli is covered with sauce to prevent drying out during cooking.
- Top with remaining ravioli and sauce. Sprinkle with garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if desired. Reserve the final portion of cheese for later.
- Cover and cook on low for 2.5-3 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours. The ideal temperature reaches 165°F, where the sauce bubbles around the edges.
- During the final 20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining cheeses on top and replace the lid to allow for perfect melting. For a slightly browned top, transfer to the oven under the broiler for 2-3 minutes if your crockpot insert is oven-safe.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat or substitute with plant-based crumbles.
If using frozen ravioli, add approximately 30 minutes to the cooking time.
For a lighter version, try part-skim mozzarella and reduced-fat ravioli.
If your sauce is watery, reduce it slightly on the stovetop first or add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to thicken.
Nutrition
Calories: 385kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 22gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 820mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 850IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2.7mg
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