Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna recipe! This hearty and satisfying dish combines the classic flavors of lasagna with the convenience of a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With layers of tender ravioli, savory ground beef, rich pasta sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this lasagna will become an instant family favorite. Join us as we dive into the world of slow cooking and discover how simple it is to create a mouthwatering meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 (24 ounce) jars prepared pasta sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 (25 ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease.
- Season the Beef: Add chopped garlic, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the cooked ground beef. Stir to combine and cook for an additional minute.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour one jar of pasta sauce into the slow cooker. Add Italian seasoning, dried basil, and dried oregano. Stir to combine.
- Layer the Ingredients: Arrange a single layer of frozen cheese ravioli over the sauce in the slow cooker. Spread half of the seasoned ground beef over the ravioli. Top with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining ravioli, ground beef, and mozzarella cheese.
- Finish with Sauce: Pour the second jar of pasta sauce over the top layer of cheese.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or until the ravioli is tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Once cooked, spoon the ravioli lasagna onto plates or bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as ricotta, parmesan, or provolone for added flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Use fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for a burst of freshness in the lasagna.
- Additional Ingredients: Add layers of sliced mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables for extra texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
A: Yes, you can use fresh ravioli in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh ravioli may cook faster than frozen.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the lasagna in the slow cooker insert ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply cook it according to the instructions when ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftover ravioli lasagna in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the lasagna?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers between the layers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Q: What should I serve with slow cooker ravioli lasagna?
A: Serve the lasagna with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna:
- Substitute the cheese ravioli with zucchini ribbons or sliced eggplant for a low-carb alternative.
- Use a homemade low-carb marinara sauce or a sugar-free pasta sauce to reduce the carb content.
- Replace the mozzarella cheese with shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese for a keto-friendly option.
Low-Carb Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna:
- Opt for low-carb cheese-filled ravioli or cauliflower gnocchi as a substitute for traditional cheese ravioli.
- Choose a low-carb pasta sauce with no added sugar or sweeteners.
- Use a combination of shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese for the topping to keep the carb count lower.
With its layers of savory beef, tender ravioli, gooey cheese, and aromatic herbs, our Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna is a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a potluck with friends, this dish is sure to impress. So dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
