Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna

by

🧀 Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna

📖 Description

Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is a simple, comfort-food recipe that layers cheese-filled ravioli, rich marinara sauce, seasoned ground meat, and melted cheese — all cooked slowly in a crockpot. It tastes just like traditional lasagna but is much easier and faster to prepare, making it perfect for busy weekdays or family dinners.

⏱ Time & Servings

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 3–4 hours (HIGH) or 5–6 hours (LOW)

  • Total Time: ~4–6 hours

  • Servings: 6–8 people

🛒 Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 bag (25–30 oz / 700–850g) frozen or fresh cheese ravioli

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or chicken

  • 1 jar (24–26 oz / 680–740g) marinara or pasta sauce

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional but recommended)

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings:

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

Garnish (Optional):

  • Fresh basil or parsley

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Meat Sauce

In a pan, heat oil and sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce and seasoning. Simmer 3–5 minutes.

Step 2: Layer the Crockpot

  1. Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom.

  2. Add a layer of ravioli.

  3. Add meat sauce.

  4. Add dollops of ricotta and sprinkle mozzarella.

  5. Repeat layers until ingredients finish.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook:

  • LOW: 5–6 hours

  • HIGH: 3–4 hours

Step 4: Final Cheese Layer

Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top. Cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes until melted.

📝 Recipe Notes

  • Frozen ravioli works perfectly — no need to thaw.

  • Use spinach or mushroom ravioli for vegetarian version.

  • Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.

💡 Pro Tips

✔ Spray crockpot with non-stick spray
✔ Use thick pasta sauce to avoid watery lasagna
✔ Add layer of vegetables (mushrooms, spinach, zucchini) for extra nutrition
✔ Don’t overcook — ravioli can become too soft

🍽 Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

  • Garlic bread

  • Green salad

  • Steamed vegetables

🥗 Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approx.)

  • Calories: 420–480 kcal

  • Protein: 25–28g

  • Carbohydrates: 38–45g

  • Fat: 18–22g

  • Fiber: 3–5g

  • Calcium: 25% DV

(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)

🌱 Health Benefits

  • High protein – supports muscle health

  • Calcium rich – strengthens bones & teeth

  • Energy boosting carbs – good for active lifestyle

  • Vegetable additions – improve digestion & immunity

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply skip meat and add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Q2: Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Store in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Q3: Can I use fresh ravioli?

Yes — reduce cooking time by 30–45 minutes.

Q4: Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Ground chicken or shredded chicken works great.

Q5: Can I cook overnight?

It’s best to cook during the day to avoid overcooking.

⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Super easy

  • Minimal prep

  • Family friendly

  • Perfect for gatherings

  • Budget friendly

Leave a Comment