Name: Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage; 1 (28-oz) jar spaghetti sauce; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened; ¼ cup sour cream; 2 Tbsp parsley; ½ tsp garlic powder; ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 (25-oz) package frozen cheese ravioli; 2 cups mozzarella cheese

Are you ready to elevate your dinner table with a dish that’s both comforting and luxurious? Look no further than the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, a decadent blend of Italian flavors and creamy textures that will leave your family asking for more. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe promises to impress with every bite.

Ingredients:

1 lb Italian sausage

1 (28-oz) jar spaghetti sauce

¼ cup sour cream

1 cup cottage cheese

1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened

2 Tbsp parsley

½ tsp garlic powder

⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese

1 (25-oz) package frozen cheese ravioli

2 cups mozzarella cheese

Directions:

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF. Prepare a 9x13x2-inch baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray.

Prepare Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the spaghetti sauce, combining well. Set aside.

Mix Cheeses and Ravioli: In a large bowl, blend together cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, grated parmesan cheese, parsley, and garlic powder until smooth. Add the frozen cheese ravioli to the mixture, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly.

Assemble Casserole: Spread the ravioli and cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Pour the meat sauce over the ravioli, ensuring it covers the entire surface. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven, uncovered, and bake for 45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.

Serve: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Then, slice and serve this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole to your eagerly waiting guests.

Serving Tips:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top of the casserole for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serve with Garlic Bread: Accompany the casserole with warm, crusty garlic bread or breadsticks. The bread will complement the flavors and soak up any extra sauce on the plate.

Add a Side Salad: Balance the richness of the casserole with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The salad provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish.

Individual Servings: For a more elegant presentation, scoop out individual servings using a spatula or large spoon. This makes it easier for guests to serve themselves and creates a polished look on the plate.

Pair with Wine: If serving for a special occasion, consider pairing the casserole with a glass of red wine such as Chianti or a white wine like Pinot Grigio. The wine enhances the meal and elevates the dining experience.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: This casserole can also be frozen for longer storage. Place individual portions or the entire dish in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrapped with foil. It should stay good in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Then, reheat in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through, covering with foil to prevent excessive browning. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until heated to your liking.

Quality Maintenance: When reheating, consider adding a splash of extra sauce or a sprinkle of cheese to refresh the flavors and moisture of the dish.

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FAQs:

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can substitute fresh ravioli for frozen in this recipe. However, adjust the cooking time accordingly since fresh ravioli typically cooks faster than frozen. Monitor the casserole in the oven to prevent overcooking the ravioli.

Can I make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble the dish as directed, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow the casserole to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as per the recipe instructions.

What can I serve with Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as garlic bread, breadsticks, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables. These sides complement the richness of the dish and provide a balanced meal.

Can I freeze leftovers of Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this casserole. Store them in an airtight container or wrap tightly with foil. It should keep well in the freezer for 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for your next gathering. With its savory Italian sausage, layers of rich cheeses, and perfectly cooked ravioli, this dish is sure to become a beloved favorite among family and friends. Elevate your dining experience with a recipe that combines simplicity with decadence, making every mealtime a special occasion. Enjoy the flavors, enjoy the moment—this casserole promises to deliver satisfaction with every forkful.

📖 Recipe: