Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna

Recipe Introduction: Your New Family Dinner Hero

This Crockpot ravioli lasagna transforms the classic Italian comfort food into an incredibly easy slow cooker meal that requires no pre-cooking or complicated layering. Using frozen ravioli as the star ingredient, this Crockpot ravioli lasagna creates all the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna with a fraction of the work. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this Crockpot ravioli lasagna feeds a crowd and develops rich, melded flavors during the slow cooking process. Simply layer the ingredients in your crockpot and let it work its magic. This Crockpot ravioli lasagna proves that delicious homemade dinners can be both effortless and impressive.

Storage Options

Store leftover Crockpot ravioli lasagna in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in airtight containers. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or larger portions in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This dish freezes beautifully for up to 3 months when wrapped tightly, making it perfect for meal prep and future easy dinners.

Summary

This Crockpot ravioli lasagna uses frozen ravioli, marinara sauce, and cheese to create a simplified version of classic lasagna that cooks hands-free in your slow cooker. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal with all the traditional flavors of lasagna without the fuss.

Equipment

• 6-quart slow cooker (crockpot)
• Large spoon for layering
• Measuring cups
• Can opener
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Large serving spoon
• Aluminum foil (optional)

Ingredients

Main Components:

• 2 bags (20 oz each) frozen cheese ravioli
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 jar (15 oz) alfredo sauce
• 1 pound ground Italian sausage, cooked and drained
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions:

• 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook and drain the Italian sausage in a large skillet with diced onion and minced garlic. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, basil, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
3. Spray your 6-quart crockpot with cooking spray or line with parchment paper.
4. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the crockpot.
5. Layer half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce, overlapping slightly.
6. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli.
7. Add half of the cooked sausage mixture.
8. Drizzle with half of the alfredo sauce.
9. Repeat layers: remaining ravioli, remaining ricotta mixture, remaining sausage, and remaining alfredo sauce.
10. Top with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
11. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours.
12. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.

Notes

• Don’t thaw frozen ravioli before layering
• Ensure sausage is completely cooked and drained to prevent excess grease
• Use fresh ricotta for best texture and flavor
• The dish is done when cheese is melted and ravioli feels tender when pierced with a fork

Tips for Success

• Spray your crockpot well to prevent sticking
• Don’t lift the lid during cooking to maintain consistent temperature
• Let the dish rest after cooking for easier serving and better presentation
• Use a combination of marinara and alfredo sauces for complex flavor
• Pre-cook any vegetables to remove excess moisture
• Taste and season the ricotta mixture before layering

Additional Tips and Variations

Transform your Crockpot ravioli lasagna by experimenting with different ravioli flavors like spinach and ricotta, mushroom, or meat-filled varieties. Add layers of sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition. For a lighter version, substitute part-skim ricotta and reduce the cheese quantities. Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of Italian sausage, or make it vegetarian by omitting meat entirely and adding extra vegetables. A layer of fresh spinach or kale adds color and nutrients without affecting the cooking process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen in my Crockpot ravioli lasagna? A: Fresh ravioli works but may become softer. Reduce cooking time by 30-60 minutes and check for doneness earlier.

Q: Why is my Crockpot ravioli lasagna watery? A: Excess moisture from vegetables or sauce can cause this. Drain cooked vegetables well and use thick sauces rather than thin ones.

Q: Can I assemble this Crockpot ravioli lasagna ahead of time? A: Yes, assemble up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Add 30-60 minutes to cooking time if starting from cold.

Q: How do I know when the ravioli is fully cooked? A: The ravioli should be tender when pierced with a fork and the cheese should be melted and bubbly throughout.

Q: Can I double this recipe? A: This recipe is designed for a 6-quart crockpot. For larger quantities, use a bigger slow cooker or make two separate batches.

Conclusion

This Crockpot ravioli lasagna represents the perfect fusion of traditional Italian comfort food and modern convenience cooking. By leveraging the power of your slow cooker and the convenience of frozen ravioli, this recipe delivers all the beloved flavors of classic lasagna without the time-consuming preparation and complicated layering techniques. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal that brings families together around the dinner table while giving busy cooks the gift of time and simplicity. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned crockpot enthusiast, this Crockpot ravioli lasagna will quickly become a go-to recipe in your meal rotation. The hands-off cooking method, combined with the ability to feed a crowd and store beautifully as leftovers, makes this dish an invaluable addition to any home cook’s repertoire. With its rich, melded flavors and foolproof preparation method, this Crockpot ravioli lasagna proves that extraordinary meals can come from the simplest techniques and ingredients.