Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna is a simple and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of lasagna with minimal effort. By using store-bought ravioli as the pasta layer, you save time and still get that cheesy, saucy, and hearty lasagna goodness. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner. Just set it and let the slow cooker do the work!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground Italian sausage)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
• 1 (18-20 oz) package frozen or refrigerated cheese ravioli (or meat-filled ravioli)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional for layering)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms for added veggies
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

For Serving:

• Garlic bread or a side salad

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.
4. Drain any excess grease, and season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker

1. Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or lightly grease it.
2. Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker and spread it out evenly.

Step 3: Layer the Ravioli Lasagna

1. Layer half of the frozen or refrigerated ravioli over the marinara sauce in a single layer.
2. Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the ravioli.
3. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat mixture.
4. If using, dollop ricotta or cottage cheese over the mozzarella.
5. Repeat the layers: sauce, ravioli, ground beef, and mozzarella. Finish with a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Lasagna

1. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the ravioli is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once the lasagna is cooked, garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.
2. Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.

Cooking Notes

• Ravioli: You can use either frozen or refrigerated ravioli for this recipe. Cheese ravioli is a classic choice, but you can use meat or spinach-filled ravioli for variety.
• Cheese Layer: For extra creaminess, don’t skip the ricotta or cottage cheese layer. It adds a traditional lasagna texture.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Ravioli Lasagna

Omit the ground beef and layer the lasagna with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.

2. Spicy Ravioli Lasagna

Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage in place of ground beef to add heat to the dish.

3. Three-Cheese Ravioli Lasagna

Use a combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses for a rich and cheesy lasagna.

4. White Sauce Ravioli Lasagna

Replace the marinara sauce with a white Alfredo sauce for a creamy and indulgent version of this recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready, place it in the slow cooker and cook as directed.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Q: Can I freeze Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. After cooking, let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I use different types of ravioli?
Absolutely! You can use cheese-filled, meat-filled, or even spinach-filled ravioli depending on your taste preferences.

Q: Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add layers of fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or zucchini to make this dish even more nutritious.

This Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna is a no-fuss way to enjoy the delicious flavors of lasagna with minimal prep time. By using ravioli as the pasta layer, you cut down on the steps needed to make traditional lasagna. With layers of meat sauce, cheese, and tender ravioli, this comforting dish is perfect for any weeknight dinner or special gathering.