Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna

📖 Description

Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is the easiest way to enjoy classic lasagna flavors without the extra work. Instead of boiling noodles and carefully layering them, frozen cheese ravioli acts as the pasta and cheese layer all in one. Slow-cooked in a rich meat sauce and topped with gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan, this dish turns into a bubbly, hearty meal the whole family will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy Sunday dinners when you want comfort food with minimal effort.

🛒 Ingredients

  • 1 (25 oz) bag frozen cheese ravioli (no need to thaw)

  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce

  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 3–5 minutes to combine flavors. Remove from heat.

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 Layer in the Crockpot

Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Start with a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Add a single layer of frozen ravioli. Spoon small dollops of ricotta (if using) over the ravioli. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Repeat the layers—sauce, ravioli, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan—until ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

 Slow Cook

Cover and cook on:

  • LOW for 4–5 hours, or

  • HIGH for 2–3 hours

Check at the minimum cook time to avoid overcooking, as ravioli can become too soft.

Rest & Serve

Turn off the slow cooker and let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

🍽 Servings

Serves 6–8 people

💡 Tips for Best Results

✔ Don’t stir after layering—this keeps beautiful layers intact.
✔ Use whole milk mozzarella for a creamier melt.
✔ Add spinach or mushrooms between layers for extra vegetables.
✔ For spice, use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.

🥗 Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving – 8 servings)

Calories: 420–480
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 780mg