If you are craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal that feels both cozy and indulgent, then this Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is just what you need. Combining the convenience of a slow cooker with the layered goodness of lasagna and the delicate pillows of ravioli, this dish delivers a hearty, flavorful experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend, this recipe makes dinner effortless without skimping on the taste or the homestyle feel you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen to create a rich balance of flavors, textures, and colors that bring this Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna Recipe to life. Each item plays an essential role, whether it’s the tender ravioli, the savory meat sauce, or the creamy cheeses that melt perfectly together.
- Frozen cheese ravioli: Acts as the pasta base; using frozen saves time and maintains texture during slow cooking.
- Marinara sauce: Provides a robust tomato flavor and moisture to keep everything deliciously saucy.
- Ground beef (or turkey/chicken): Adds protein and heartiness; choose lean options for a lighter dish.
- Onion, chopped: Builds savory depth with a touch of sweetness when cooked.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with classic Italian aroma and flavor.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating gooey layers that hold the lasagna together.
- Ricotta cheese: Brings creamy richness and a subtle tang to each bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish when sprinkled on top.
- Dried basil: Injects an aromatic herbal note that brightens the sauce.
- Dried oregano: Enhances the warmth and authenticity of the Italian flavor profile.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a gentle kick for those who like a bit of heat.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
- Water: Adds moisture to ensure the slow cooker environment keeps the ravioli tender without drying out.
How to Make Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
Start by heating some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once warm, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Let them cook for about three minutes until they soften and release their wonderful aromas. Add your ground beef to the pan, seasoning it generously with salt, pepper, dried basil, oregano, and the optional red pepper flakes. Cook the meat mixture until browned through, then drain the excess fat to keep the dish hearty but not greasy. This simple yet rich base infuses the rest of the lasagna with savory goodness.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Begin by spreading a generous amount of marinara sauce on the bottom of your slow cooker. This wet layer prevents sticking and adds vibrant color. Next, arrange a layer of frozen ravioli right on top of the sauce—no need to thaw! Follow with a layer of the cooked meat mixture, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and dollops of ricotta cheese evenly across. Repeat these beautiful layers until you’ve used all your ingredients, making sure to finish with a final layer of sauce and a hefty topping of mozzarella for that golden, melty finish.
Step 3: Add Moisture and Cook
Pour 1/4 cup of water around the edges of the slow cooker. This technique helps keep the moisture balanced so the ravioli cooks perfectly without drying out or becoming mushy. Place the lid on and set your slow cooker to low for 4 to 6 hours, or if you’re short on time, cook on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know your Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbling, and the ravioli is tender but still holds its shape.
Step 4: Finish With Parmesan
About 10 minutes before you plan to serve, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Close the lid and let it melt into a slightly crispy, flavorful crust that adds a sophisticated touch to this cozy dish.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is perfectly cooked and the cheese has melted to glorious perfection, scoop out generous portions and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides to balance the richness.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil leaves adds freshness and a pop of color that brightens the hearty layers. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few chili flakes on top can elevate each serving for a personal touch.
Side Dishes
Classic Italian sides like garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables complement this slow cooker ravioli lasagna recipe perfectly. The sides provide texture contrasts and balance, rounding out the meal beautifully without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your lasagna in rustic bowls for a cozy, casual vibe or plate it on large dinner plates with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a restaurant-worthy presentation. For a fun twist, layer individual servings in small ramekins, bake the Parmesan crust under a broiler for a minute, and serve them as elegant personal portions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this fabulous Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making lunchtime a breeze the next day or two.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover lasagna in portions by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, or by using freezer-safe containers. Frozen portions will maintain their flavor and texture for up to 2 months—perfect for future busy nights.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from refrigerated leftovers in the microwave until warmed through. For a deliciously crisp top, reheating in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes is ideal. Cover loosely with foil to prevent excessive browning if needed.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen for this Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh ravioli will cook faster, so you might need to adjust the slow cooker time slightly—reduce it to avoid overcooking the delicate pasta. Keep an eye on the texture to ensure it doesn’t become too soft.
Is it necessary to brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker?
Browning the meat enhances flavor and texture, preventing a one-note taste. It also allows fat to be drained off, helping the dish stay less greasy. While you could skip this step for convenience, the result won’t be quite as rich.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or veggies like zucchini and spinach. These alternatives bring great texture and taste, making the Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna Recipe just as delicious without meat.
What type of slow cooker size is ideal for this recipe?
A 6-quart slow cooker works best for this recipe to accommodate the layers comfortably without overcrowding. Using a smaller slow cooker might cause uneven cooking, while a larger one could lead to thinner layers.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and refrigerate before cooking?
Yes! You can assemble the layers in your slow cooker insert the night before, then cover and refrigerate. Before cooking, add the water, cover, and proceed with the cooking times as usual. Just be sure to use fresh ingredients and keep it properly chilled.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is a true game-changer in the kitchen, blending comfort food with ease in the best way possible. It’s a go-to that promises warm, cheesy, and satisfying bites with minimal fuss, perfect for family dinners or impressing friends with little effort. Give it a try and watch how fast it becomes a beloved classic in your recipe collection!
Print
Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes (low) or 2 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna is an easy and delicious comfort food dish combining layers of frozen cheese ravioli, savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses. Perfect for a fuss-free meal, it simmers slowly to melt the cheese and tenderize the ravioli, delivering a hearty, flavorful lasagna without the hassle of traditional layering and baking.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Lasagna Layers
- 1 lb (450g) frozen cheese ravioli (or your preferred variety)
- 2 cups (480ml) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups (240g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup (240g) ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (60ml) water (to add moisture while cooking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the ground beef, seasoning it with salt, pepper, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook the meat until browned evenly, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the pan before proceeding.
- Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange a layer of frozen cheese ravioli on top of the sauce. Spoon half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the ravioli. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and half of the ricotta cheese evenly over the meat. Repeat layering with the remaining marinara sauce, ravioli, beef mixture, mozzarella, and ricotta, finishing with sauce and cheese on top.
- Add Moisture and Cook: Pour 1/4 cup of water around the edges of the slow cooker to help keep the layers moist during cooking. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on the low setting for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the cheese is melted and the ravioli are tender.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: About 10 minutes before serving, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the cooked lasagna. Cover again and let the Parmesan melt into the hot dish.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the ravioli lasagna hot, paired nicely with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of crushed chili.
- Make sure to layer the ingredients carefully to ensure even cooking.
- Using frozen ravioli saves time and eliminates the need for boiling pasta separately.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
