CROCKPOT RAVIOLI LASAGNA: YES!

I remember the first time my mom made lasagna. It was an all-day affair, with pots simmering and the aroma filling the entire house. While I cherished those memories, as a busy adult, I rarely have that kind of time! That’s why I adore this Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna. It gives you that comforting lasagna taste without all the fuss. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna you’ll ever make!

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna

Okay, friend, let’s be real. We all want delicious, comforting food, but we don’t always have hours to spend slaving away in the kitchen. That’s where this recipe comes in to save the day! This Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is:

• Incredibly Easy: Seriously, if you can layer ingredients, you can make this.
• Minimal Prep: We’re talking 15 minutes, tops! Perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will devour this cheesy, saucy goodness.
• Versatile: You can customize it with your favorite fillings and toppings.
• Deliciously Cheesy and Flavorful: It’s lasagna, but made even easier (and arguably just as good!).

This is seriously one of those recipes you’ll make again and again. Trust me, it’s a winner!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! Don’t worry, the list is short and sweet:

• Frozen Ravioli: About 25 ounces. I usually go for cheese ravioli, but meat or spinach ravioli work great too.
• Your Favorite Pasta Sauce: 24-26 ounces. Use a jarred sauce to keep things super simple, or whip up your own if you’re feeling ambitious.
• Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces. This adds a creamy, cheesy layer that’s essential for lasagna vibes.
• Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded. Because, cheese!
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated. For that extra salty, nutty flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. This adds a little extra Italian flair.
• Egg: 1 large. This helps bind the ricotta cheese mixture.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional): For garnish. Makes it look extra fancy!

Ingredient Swaps and Suggestions

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your ingredients! Here are a few ideas:

• Ravioli: Try using mushroom ravioli, lobster ravioli, or even a blend of different ravioli flavors!
• Sauce: Experiment with different pasta sauces, like a creamy pesto or a spicy arrabbiata.
• Meat: Add a layer of browned ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken for extra protein. If you’re looking for something that can be made in the slow cooker with ease, you can add some leftover SLOW COOKER LEMON CHICKEN to the layers.
• Veggies: Sneak in some chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Cheese: Use a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a richer flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make this Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna:

1. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 teaspoon of the Italian seasoning. Mix well. This is your creamy, cheesy base.
2. Layer It Up!: Lightly grease the bottom of your crockpot. Spread a thin layer of pasta sauce on the bottom. Then, add a layer of ravioli, followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture, a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of the remaining Parmesan cheese. Repeat these layers until all of the ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of sauce and mozzarella cheese on top.
3. Cook It Low and Slow: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the ravioli is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Let It Rest: Once it’s done cooking, let the lasagna sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit and makes it easier to slice.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley (if using) and serve hot.

Pro Tips for Perfect Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your lasagna turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Overcook: Overcooked ravioli can get mushy, so keep an eye on it and don’t cook it for too long.
• Don’t Overfill: Overfilling the crockpot can prevent the lasagna from cooking evenly.
• Use a Slow Cooker Liner: This makes cleanup a breeze! Seriously, it’s a game-changer.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on your crockpot, so start checking the lasagna after 3 hours.
• Pre-cook your meat: If you are using ground beef or sausage, make sure to brown it before layering. This will ensure it’s fully cooked and prevents excess grease in your lasagna.

Serving Suggestions

This Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is a meal on its own, but here are a few sides that would complement it perfectly:

• Garlic Bread: Because, carbs!
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast. A CAPRESE PASTA SALAD BLISS would also pair beautifully!
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are all great options.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons are a classic pairing with lasagna.

Make Ahead and Storage Instructions

This Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is a great make-ahead meal! You can assemble it the night before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it. Just add about 30 minutes to the cooking time.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Can you freeze Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna?

Yes, you can! Let the lasagna cool completely, then cut it into individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Variations and Twists

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are a few fun variations on this recipe:

• Spicy Ravioli Lasagna: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture or use a spicy marinara sauce. Try making this with the same flavors found in Spicy Chicken Rigatoni.
• Veggie-Packed Ravioli Lasagna: Add layers of sauteed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
• Meat Lover’s Ravioli Lasagna: Add layers of browned ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken. Consider adding some of the flavors of HONEY PEPPER CHICKEN PASTA with some chicken breasts to the layers.
• White Sauce Ravioli Lasagna: Use a creamy Alfredo sauce instead of marinara sauce. Add some sauteed mushrooms and spinach for a delicious white sauce lasagna.
• Mini Ravioli Lasagna Cups: Use small ramekins or muffin tins to create individual ravioli lasagna cups. This is a fun and easy way to serve lasagna for parties.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned in the kitchen. Here are a few common issues and how to fix them:

• Ravioli is mushy: You probably overcooked it. Next time, start checking the lasagna after 3 hours and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Lasagna is dry: Add more sauce! Make sure the ravioli is well-covered in sauce before cooking.
• Lasagna is watery: This can happen if the vegetables release too much moisture. Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the vegetables before adding them to the lasagna.
• Cheese isn’t melting: Make sure the crockpot is hot enough and that the cheese is evenly distributed on top. You can also try broiling the lasagna for a few minutes at the end to melt the cheese.

Final Thoughts and Tips

Okay, my friend, you’re now armed with all the knowledge you need to make the most amazing Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna ever! Remember to have fun, experiment with different flavors, and don’t be afraid to get creative. This is your lasagna, so make it your own!

I know you’re going to absolutely nail this recipe. Just imagine the look on everyone’s faces when you serve up this cheesy, comforting masterpiece. You’ll be a lasagna hero, I promise! And who knows, maybe you’ll even decide to tackle that Homemade Stromboli next!

Happy cooking!

Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna

This Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna recipe delivers the comforting flavors of lasagna with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, it features layers of ravioli, sauce, and cheese cooked in a slow cooker for a delicious and easy meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian-American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 25 ounces frozen ravioli cheese, meat, or spinach
• 24-26 ounces pasta sauce
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 large egg
• Fresh parsley, for garnish optional
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Equipment

• Crockpot (slow cooker)
• Medium bowl
• spoon or spatula
• measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater
• Optional: Slow cooker liner

Method

 

1. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 teaspoon of the Italian seasoning. Mix well.
2. Lightly grease the bottom of your crockpot with cooking spray or olive oil.
3. Spread a thin layer of pasta sauce on the bottom of the crockpot.
4. Add a layer of ravioli, covering the sauce.
5. Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the ricotta layer.
7. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese (from the 1/4 cup reserved) over the mozzarella.
8. Repeat layers: Continue layering ravioli, ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of sauce and mozzarella cheese on top.
9. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the ravioli is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let It Rest: Once it’s done cooking, let the lasagna sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley (if using) and serve hot.

Notes

For best results, don’t overcook the ravioli, as it can become mushy. Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup. If adding meat, pre-cook and drain any excess grease before layering. Cooking times may vary depending on your crockpot. To make ahead, assemble the lasagna the night before and refrigerate; add about 30 minutes to the cooking time. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2-3 months. Try different variations by using different types of ravioli, sauces, or adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.