Introduction
Welcome to a delicious recipe for Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna. This hearty and satisfying dish combines the flavors of traditional lasagna with the convenience of a slow cooker. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a cooking enthusiast searching for a new recipe to try, this Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is sure to become a family favorite. With layers of cheesy ravioli, savory meat sauce, and melted mozzarella, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort.
Ingredients
To make Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna, you will need the following ingredients:
1. 1 pound of ground beef
2. 1 onion, chopped
3. 2 cloves of garlic, minced
4. 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
5. 1 teaspoon of dried basil
6. Salt and pepper to taste
7. 1 jar (24 ounces) of marinara sauce
8. 1 package (25 ounces) of frozen cheese ravioli
9. 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
10. Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
These simple ingredients can be easily found in most grocery stores, making it convenient to whip up this dish whenever the craving strikes.
Steps
Follow these easy steps to prepare and cook Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna:
1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.
2. Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then season the beef mixture with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce and remove the skillet from heat.
4. Spoon a layer of the meat sauce into the bottom of the crockpot.
5. Arrange a layer of frozen ravioli on top of the sauce.
6. Sprinkle a portion of the mozzarella cheese over the ravioli.
7. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ensuring the final layer is cheese.
8. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the ravioli is tender and cooked through.
9. Once cooked, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired before serving.
Variations
There are several ways to customize Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna to suit your preferences:
– Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
– Add diced vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra nutrition.
– Experiment with different types of ravioli, such as spinach and ricotta or mushroom-filled, for a unique twist.
– For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and double the amount of cheese for a rich and cheesy lasagna.
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own by incorporating your favorite ingredients and flavors.
Tips
Here are some tips to ensure your Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna turns out perfectly every time:
– Use a liner in your crockpot for easy cleanup after cooking.
– Layer the ingredients evenly to ensure even cooking and distribution of flavors.
– Check the ravioli towards the end of the cooking time to avoid overcooking and becoming mushy.
– Let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Conclusion
Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is a convenient and delicious meal that is perfect for busy days when you want a comforting dish without the hassle of traditional lasagna preparation. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is a great addition to your slow cooker repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is sure to impress with its rich flavors and cheesy goodness.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
A: Yes, you can use fresh ravioli in this recipe, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as fresh pasta cooks faster than frozen.
Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Leftover Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna?
A: Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
Q: Can I add additional herbs and spices to the meat sauce?
A: Feel free to customize the meat sauce with your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavor to your liking.
Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
A hearty and satisfying dish combining the flavors of traditional lasagna with the convenience of a slow cooker. Layers of cheesy ravioli, savory meat sauce, and melted mozzarella make this Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
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1 pound ground beef
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1 onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
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1 package (25 ounces) frozen cheese ravioli
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
-
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Directions
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In a skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is soft.
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Drain any excess fat, then season the beef mixture with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
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Stir in marinara sauce and remove from heat.
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Spoon a layer of the meat sauce into the bottom of the crockpot.
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Arrange a layer of frozen ravioli on top of the sauce.
-
Sprinkle a portion of the mozzarella cheese over the ravioli.
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Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, with the final layer being cheese.
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Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the ravioli is tender.
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Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
