Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy dinner without the fuss of layering traditional lasagna, then you’re in for a treat with this Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe. This dish blends the comforting flavors of classic lasagna with the convenience of frozen ravioli and crockpot slow cooking, delivering a perfect weeknight meal that’s rich, melty, and unbelievably simple. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or hosting casual friends, this recipe saves time while satisfying those lasagna cravings with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Time-saving magic: Using frozen ravioli and a crockpot means minimal prep and hands-off cooking, freeing up your evening.
- Cheesy comfort: Each layer bubbles with gooey cheese and savory sauce, mimicking traditional lasagna flavors effortlessly.
- One-pot wonder: No need for multiple pans or complicated layering—everything cooks beautifully together in your crockpot.
- Kid-friendly: Simple ingredients and familiar flavors make this a hit even with picky eaters.
- Adaptable and versatile: Easy to customize with different sauces, cheeses, or veggies to suit your preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this recipe are straightforward but essential for achieving the right balance of flavor, texture, and that irresistible golden cheese top you’ll love. Each element plays a unique role—whether it’s the creamy ricotta adding richness or the savory sauce giving depth to the dish.
- Frozen cheese ravioli: The star of the dish providing the perfect bite-sized pasta with cheesy filling.
- Marinara sauce: Adds a robust, slightly tangy tomato flavor to coat the ravioli beautifully.
- Ricotta cheese: Gives creaminess and that classic lasagna texture, making each layer deliciously smooth.
- Shredded mozzarella: Melts perfectly for that gooey, stretchy cheese pull we all love.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish that elevates the entire dish.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs for that authentic, aromatic Italian flair.
- Fresh basil (optional): Brightens the flavor and adds a pop of color as garnish.
Variations for Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
This recipe is wonderfully forgiving, inviting you to make substitutions or additions depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Experimenting with these variations can keep the dish fresh and exciting every time you make it.
- Meat lovers’ option: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken between layers for added protein and flavor.
- Vegetarian twist: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for an extra veggie boost.
- Spicy kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or use a spicy arrabbiata sauce to add some heat.
- Dairy-free adjustment: Use plant-based cheeses and a dairy-free marinara to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Herb freshness: Swap dried Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like oregano and thyme for a vibrant herbaceous touch.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the sauce and cheeses
Start by mixing the ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This creamy mixture is your flavorful binding layer for the ravioli.
Step 2: Layer your crockpot
Spoon a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the crockpot to prevent sticking. Then add a single layer of frozen ravioli, followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture and another generous spoonful of sauce. Repeat these layers until ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and shredded mozzarella on top.
Step 3: Set and cook
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 3 to 4 hours, until the ravioli are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden. Avoid opening the lid too often, as this can prolong cooking time.
Step 4: Garnish and serve
Once cooked, sprinkle fresh basil or extra Parmesan over the top for a beautiful, fragrant finish. Let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.
Pro Tips for Making Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
- Use fresh ravioli if possible: Fresh ravioli cooks quicker but frozen works perfectly and holds shape well in the crockpot.
- Don’t overfill the crockpot: Leave some space at the top for heat to circulate evenly ensuring all layers cook through.
- Reserve some cheese for topping: This creates that irresistible browned cheese crust everyone loves.
- Low and slow is key: Cooking on low heat prevents the sauce from drying out and keeps the ravioli tender.
- Let it rest before serving: This helps the layers bind together for neat, sliceable portions.
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, or even a drizzle of good-quality olive oil add brightness and elevate the presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this cheesy delight with a crisp garden salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies to balance the richness and round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in individual ramekins straight from the crockpot for a cozy personal portion or layer it in a casserole dish for family-style serving at the table—both bring a warm, inviting touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerate leftover ravioli lasagna in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring flavors meld even more as it rests.
Freezing
You can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through, adding a splash of water or extra sauce if needed to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I use different types of ravioli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Cheese ravioli works best for the classic flavor, but you can try spinach, meat-filled, or even gluten-free ravioli to customize your dish.
Do I need to thaw frozen ravioli before adding it to the crockpot?
No need to thaw—adding frozen ravioli directly saves time and cooks perfectly in the slow cooker alongside the sauce and cheese.
How long does it take to cook in the crockpot?
This recipe typically takes about 3 to 4 hours on low heat, though slow cooker times can vary depending on the appliance.
Can I prepare this recipe without a crockpot?
While designed for slow cooking, you can bake it in the oven in a casserole dish for about 45 minutes at 375°F; just cover with foil until the end to melt the cheeses.
What if I want to add vegetables?
Feel free to layer in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to add more flavor and nutrients without changing the cooking time much.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a simple, comforting meal that feels like a hug in food form, this Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe is a must-try. The effortless preparation combined with the layered cheesy goodness makes it a go-to dish that you’ll love making again and again—perfect for busy nights or relaxed weekends alike. Dive in and savor every delicious spoonful!
Related Posts
PrintEasy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
A simple and hearty crockpot recipe that layers frozen cheese ravioli with a creamy ricotta mixture, marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella for an easy, fuss-free lasagna experience. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines the comforting flavors of classic lasagna with minimal prep and slow cooker convenience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free ravioli is used)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Frozen cheese ravioli (about 20 oz)
- Marinara sauce (3 to 4 cups)
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups, divided)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, divided)
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce and cheeses: Mix the ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella, half of the grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper to create a creamy and flavorful binding mixture.
- Layer your crockpot: Spoon a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the crockpot to prevent sticking. Add a single layer of frozen ravioli, then dollops of the ricotta mixture, followed by another generous spoonful of sauce. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and the remaining shredded mozzarella on top.
- Set and cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours, until the ravioli are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden. Try not to lift the lid too often to prevent prolonging cooking time.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh basil or extra Parmesan over the top for a fragrant and appealing finish. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving to help it set and make it easier to slice.
Notes
- Use fresh ravioli if available for quicker cooking, but frozen ravioli works perfectly in the crockpot.
- Do not overfill the crockpot; leave space for heat circulation to ensure even cooking.
- Reserve some cheese for topping to achieve a golden, browned cheese crust.
- Cook on low heat to keep the sauce moist and ravioli tender.
- Allow the dish to rest before serving for neat, sliceable portions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Keywords: crockpot ravioli lasagna, easy lasagna recipe, slow cooker dinner, cheesy ravioli, weeknight meal, one-pot lasagna
