Slow Cooker Beef and Cheese Ravioli Lasagna is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna. This recipe combines the convenience of frozen cheese ravioli with the hearty flavors of ground beef and marinara sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen, let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a delicious, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (25-ounce) bag frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 (15-ounce) container of whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Mix the Ricotta: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley. Mix well and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Layer the Ingredients: In the bottom of your slow cooker, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Add a layer of frozen cheese ravioli on top of the sauce.
- Add Beef and Cheese: Spoon a portion of the cooked beef mixture over the ravioli, followed by dollops of the ricotta cheese mixture. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 4: Cook
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The lasagna is ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, let the lasagna sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Notes
- Meat Options: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian option, omit the ground beef and add more vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Extra Cheesy: If you love extra cheese, feel free to add more mozzarella and Parmesan layers.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh ravioli instead of frozen. However, reduce the cooking time by about an hour to prevent the ravioli from becoming too soft.
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, place it in the slow cooker and follow the cooking instructions.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this lasagna freezes well. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How do I prevent the lasagna from becoming too watery?
Ensure to drain the excess fat from the ground beef and avoid adding too much extra liquid. Using a thicker marinara sauce can also help prevent a watery lasagna.
Keto/Low Carb Version
For a keto or low-carb version, you can substitute the ravioli with zucchini or eggplant slices. Use a low-carb marinara sauce and reduce the amount of cheese if needed. Follow the same layering and cooking instructions.
Slow Cooker Beef and Cheese Ravioli Lasagna is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of traditional lasagna with the convenience of a slow cooker. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone. Try it out and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you tried in the comments below!
