Description
This Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is a simple, comforting Italian-American dish perfect for busy weeknights. Layers of frozen cheese ravioli, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese slow-cook to create a hearty, cheesy lasagna without the fuss of traditional preparation. Ready in under 5 hours with minimal effort, it’s a family-friendly, kid-approved meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Lasagna Layers
- 1 bag (25 ounces) frozen cheese ravioli (no need to thaw)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked, about 7–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to reduce greasiness. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful base.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place half of the frozen ravioli in an even layer over the meat sauce. Top the ravioli with more meat sauce, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the Layers: Add the remaining ravioli on top, followed by the rest of the meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to form the final layer.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4 hours, or on high heat for 2 hours. The ravioli should be tender and the cheese melted and bubbly when done.
- Rest and Serve: Turn off the crockpot and let the lasagna sit uncovered for 10 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can use ground beef, Italian sausage, or a combination of both for varied flavor.
- Add a layer of fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms for extra vegetables and nutrients.
- This recipe freezes well; store leftovers in airtight containers for easy future meals.
- Perfect for meal prep as it reheats beautifully while maintaining flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
