Description
This Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna is a simple, cheesy, and flavorful twist on classic lasagna—perfect for busy weeknights and family meals!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Main Dish:
- 1 (25 oz) bag frozen ravioli (cheese or meat-filled)
- 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup chopped baby spinach (for extra greens)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for spice)
- ½ cup sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers (for added flavor)
Instructions
-
Brown the Meat:
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef or sausage until browned.
- Drain excess grease, then stir in garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add diced tomatoes and marinara sauce, stirring to combine.
-
Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
- Grease the slow cooker with non-stick spray.
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
- Add a single layer of frozen ravioli over the sauce.
- Sprinkle a portion of mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with cheese.
-
Cook the Ravioli Lasagna:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the ravioli is tender and cheese is melted.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh basil.
- Serve hot with garlic bread or a simple green salad
Notes
- Use fresh ravioli for a shorter cook time—reduce by 1 hour.
- Don’t overcook—too long in the slow cooker can make the ravioli mushy.
- Layer cheese evenly so every bite is cheesy and delicious.
- Make it ahead—assemble the layers in the slow cooker and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 10minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours (LOW) / 2-3 hours (HIGH)