Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna—a great way to enjoy the flavors of lasagna without all the layering and fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage or ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli (or refrigerated)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the meat:
- In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage or ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened.
- Prepare the sauce:
- Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Layer in the slow cooker:
- Grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
- Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add a layer of frozen or refrigerated ravioli on top of the sauce.
- Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella cheese over the ravioli.
- Repeat the layers (meat sauce, ravioli, cheese) until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the ravioli are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Tip:
For added flavor, you can mix some chopped spinach or mushrooms into the meat sauce before layering. If you like a bit of crunch, you can broil the casserole for a few minutes after cooking to crisp up the top layer of cheese.
Enjoy your Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna—a convenient and tasty twist on traditional lasagna that’s perfect for busy weeknights!