Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

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This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is one of those dishes I go back to again and again. It’s rich, cheesy, full of flavor, and incredibly easy to throw together — especially on busy weeknights. I first made this when I had a pack of frozen ravioli and some leftover marinara that needed to be used up, and it turned into something that tasted like I’d spent hours in the kitchen. It’s comforting and hearty, just the kind of food you crave when you want something warm and satisfying.

What makes this casserole special is how it layers creamy cheese with savory sauce and stuffed pasta, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. I’ve brought this to potlucks and made it for family dinners, and it always disappears fast. If you’re looking for something easy but still impressive, this is your dish.

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Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

• It’s ridiculously easy. You’re using frozen ravioli, so there’s no need to boil pasta.
• It feeds a crowd. Generous portions make it perfect for family dinners or entertaining.
• Cheesy goodness. Cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta combine to create a decadent, creamy filling.
• Make-ahead friendly. Assemble it earlier in the day, then just bake when you’re ready.
• Kid-approved. It’s simple, familiar, and packed with flavors even picky eaters enjoy.

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What Kind of Ravioli Should I Use?

You can go classic with cheese-stuffed ravioli, or mix it up with meat, spinach, or mushroom-filled options. I usually reach for a cheese blend or beef ravioli for the best flavor balance in the casserole. Just make sure it’s frozen, not fresh — that helps with the layering and baking consistency.

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Options for Substitutions

• Ravioli: Swap in tortellini if that’s what you have on hand.
• Sauce: Use a jarred marinara or make your own. Alfredo or pink sauce also work great for a creamy twist.
• Cheese: No ricotta? Use cottage cheese instead. Out of mozzarella? Try provolone or shredded Italian blend.
• Meat: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken between the layers.
• Vegetarian: Leave out the meat entirely or add in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.

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Ingredients for This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

• Frozen cheese ravioli – The heart of the dish, providing texture and richness.
• Marinara sauce – Adds acidity, moisture, and depth to the layers.
• Cream cheese – Creates that creamy, “million dollar” texture.
• Ricotta cheese – Gives the casserole body and a mild, creamy tang.
• Shredded mozzarella – Melts beautifully and gives that gooey, golden topping.
• Grated Parmesan – Adds sharp, salty flavor and helps brown the top.
• Garlic powder & Italian seasoning – Boost the overall flavor.
• Fresh parsley – Optional, but brightens the dish and makes it feel fresher.

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What Kind of Ravioli Should I Use for Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?

When it comes to ravioli, frozen cheese ravioli is the most reliable choice for this casserole. It holds its shape during baking and balances well with the richness of the filling and sauce. I’ve tried beef ravioli and even spinach-filled ones — both worked wonderfully, offering a little variation in flavor and texture.

If you’re at the store and wondering what size to grab, go for the standard square frozen ravioli, not the oversized or tiny ones. They layer evenly and cook through perfectly without becoming soggy. Avoid fresh ravioli here — it can overcook quickly and turn mushy in the oven.

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Options for Substitutions

Making Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole your own is part of the fun. Here are some easy swaps that won’t compromise taste:

• Ravioli Swap: Cheese is the classic, but sausage, mushroom, or even lobster ravioli can give this dish a whole new personality.
• Sauce Variations: Marinara is a staple, but try swapping in a spicy arrabbiata, creamy Alfredo, or even a vodka sauce for something bold and different.
• Cream Cheese Substitute: Mascarpone works well here, or try a mixture of sour cream and a touch of shredded mozzarella for creaminess.
• Ricotta Alternative: Cottage cheese is an easy sub — just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
• Add Veggies: Wilted spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or shredded zucchini can be layered right into the casserole.
• Meat Lovers’ Twist: Stir in some cooked ground beef, spicy Italian sausage, or pancetta for extra heartiness.

Whether you’re adjusting for what’s in your fridge or trying to match specific dietary needs, this casserole is endlessly flexible.

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Ingredients for This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Frozen Cheese Ravioli

This is the foundation of the casserole. Frozen ravioli holds up well during baking and delivers a soft, cheesy bite in every layer. Cheese-stuffed varieties are creamy and classic, but meat or spinach-filled ones work just as well if you prefer more flavor complexity.

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Marinara Sauce

You need a generous amount of marinara to coat the ravioli and keep the casserole moist. It brings acidity and brightness, which balances all the rich cheese. Store-bought works perfectly, but if you have a homemade batch, even better.

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Cream Cheese

This is the “secret” ingredient that gives the casserole its signature creaminess. It melts into the sauce mixture and creates that decadent, smooth texture you expect from a “million dollar” dish.

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Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta adds body and a slightly tangy, mild flavor that complements the stronger cheeses. It helps create that rich, layered filling that’s silky but not too heavy.

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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella is what gives this dish that gooey, cheesy pull when you scoop into it. It’s mild and melty, perfect for both the middle and top layers of the casserole.

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Grated Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan brings in sharp, salty notes and helps the top of the casserole get beautifully golden and slightly crisp. It also adds that deep umami flavor that rounds everything out.

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Garlic Powder & Italian Seasoning

Just a sprinkle of these dry seasonings wakes up the whole dish. Garlic adds warmth and aroma, while Italian seasoning ties everything together with hints of basil, oregano, and thyme.

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Fresh Parsley (Optional)

This isn’t essential, but a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley over the finished casserole brightens the flavors and makes it look a little more polished and fresh when serving.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a bit of olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier later.

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Step 2: Mix the Creamy Cheese Layer

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Stir until smooth and well blended. This is the rich, creamy filling that gives the casserole its “million dollar” title.

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Step 3: Spread the First Layer

Spoon a thin layer of marinara sauce onto the bottom of your baking dish — just enough to cover it. This keeps the bottom layer of ravioli from sticking and infuses flavor from the start.

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Step 4: Add a Layer of Frozen Ravioli

Place half of the frozen ravioli in an even layer over the sauce. No need to thaw — they’ll cook perfectly in the oven.

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Step 5: Add the Creamy Cheese Mixture

Dollop half of the ricotta-cream cheese mixture on top of the ravioli. Spread it as evenly as possible using a spoon or offset spatula.

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Step 6: Sprinkle with Cheese and Sauce

Top the cheese layer with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and a few spoonfuls of Parmesan. Then pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over everything.

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Step 7: Repeat the Layers

Add the second layer of ravioli, followed by the rest of the cheese mixture, mozzarella, Parmesan, and finally the remaining marinara sauce. Finish with a final sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

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Step 8: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then uncover and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbling and golden brown.

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Step 9: Let It Rest

After removing the casserole from the oven, let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes slicing cleaner.

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How Long to Cook the Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

The total baking time is about 40 to 45 minutes:

• 30 minutes covered with foil helps the frozen ravioli cook through and the layers meld together.
• 10 to 15 minutes uncovered lets the top get bubbly, melty, and slightly browned — that’s where the magic happens.

If you’re using a glass or ceramic baking dish straight from the fridge, add an extra 5 minutes to account for the temperature difference. Make sure the center is hot and the cheese is melted through before pulling it out of the oven.

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Tips for Perfect Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

• Don’t thaw the ravioli. Use it straight from the freezer — thawed ravioli can get mushy during baking.
• Soften your cream cheese. Room-temperature cream cheese blends much more smoothly into the ricotta mixture.
• Use enough sauce. Dry casseroles are no fun — make sure the sauce fully covers each ravioli layer to keep things moist.
• Cover it tightly for the first bake. This traps heat and steam to cook the pasta evenly.
• Let it rest before serving. Just 5–10 minutes makes a big difference in holding the shape when you scoop it out.
• Customize it. Add ground meat, sautéed vegetables, or a drizzle of Alfredo for a personalized twist.
• Finish with fresh herbs. A final touch of chopped parsley or basil brightens up the rich flavors.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is easy, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch for:

• Using fresh ravioli: It may seem like a shortcut, but fresh ravioli can turn mushy in the oven. Stick with frozen for the best texture.
• Not softening the cream cheese: Cold cream cheese is hard to mix and won’t spread smoothly. Give it time to come to room temperature.
• Skipping the sauce layer at the bottom: This causes the bottom layer to dry out and stick. Always start with sauce.
• Overbaking uncovered: Don’t leave the casserole uncovered the whole time — it’ll dry out. Cover it for the first 30 minutes.
• Not enough cheese on top: That final layer of mozzarella and Parmesan is what gives you the golden, bubbly finish — don’t skimp!
• Serving it too soon: Letting it rest before slicing helps the layers settle, making it easier to serve and enjoy.

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What to Serve With Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?

Garlic Bread

A crunchy, buttery garlic bread is a classic partner. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a cool, tangy contrast to the rich casserole.

Roasted Broccoli

Simple and slightly charred, roasted broccoli adds a healthy, earthy element that pairs well with the cheesy layers.

Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing and colorful side.

Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

Quick, easy, and flavorful — a light veggie side that balances the meal without competing.

Antipasto Platter

Serve it before or alongside: cured meats, olives, marinated vegetables, and cheese create a fun, shareable starter.

Red Wine or Sparkling Water

If you’re drinking wine, a medium-bodied red like Chianti or a Zinfandel pairs well. For a non-alcoholic option, chilled sparkling water with lemon is crisp and refreshing.

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Storage Instructions

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Let the casserole cool completely before covering it tightly with foil or transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze the entire baked casserole or leftovers. Wrap tightly in foil, then plastic wrap, or use a freezer-safe container. It will keep for 2–3 months.
• To Reheat (From Fridge): Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until heated through. Individual portions can be microwaved for 2–3 minutes.
• To Reheat (From Frozen): Let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake covered at 350°F for 30–35 minutes, uncovering the last 10 minutes to crisp the top.

Tip: If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole in a disposable aluminum tray for convenience, and bake straight from frozen, adding about 20 extra minutes to the cook time.

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Estimated Nutrition

Keep in mind that exact values can vary based on brands and portion sizes, but here’s a general estimate per serving (assuming 8 servings total):

• Calories: ~480
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 6g
• Sodium: ~780mg
• Calcium: ~25% Daily Value

This dish is definitely indulgent — it’s called “Million Dollar” for a reason — but it offers solid protein and plenty of comfort in every bite.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ravioli is best for this casserole?

Frozen cheese ravioli works best, as it holds up during baking and pairs well with the creamy layers. Meat or spinach-filled ravioli are great too for variety.

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Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add about 5 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

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Do I need to boil the ravioli first?

Nope! That’s one of the best parts — the ravioli goes in frozen and cooks perfectly in the oven with the sauce.

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Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, cottage cheese is a great substitute. Just try to drain off any excess liquid for a thicker consistency.

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How can I make this casserole vegetarian?

It already is! Just be sure your ravioli doesn’t contain meat, and skip any meat additions. You can also load it up with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for more bulk.

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What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For best results, reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Individual servings microwave well in about 2–3 minutes.

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Can I freeze Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole?

Yes! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just wrap it tightly and label with the date. Thaw overnight before reheating for best texture.

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How many people does this recipe serve?

A standard 9×13-inch dish makes about 8 hearty servings, depending on how you slice it. It’s perfect for feeding a family or bringing to a gathering.

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Conclusion

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole isn’t just a clever name — it truly delivers rich, comforting flavor that feels indulgent and homey all at once. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping for a busy week, or simply craving something cheesy and satisfying, this dish checks all the boxes. With flexible ingredients, easy prep, and rave-worthy results, it’s a recipe that quickly becomes a go-to favorite in any home kitchen. I hope you love making (and devouring) it as much as I do!

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