Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

Ground beef: Adds a hearty and savory element to the dish.

Marinara sauce: Provides a rich and tangy tomato base.

Frozen cheese ravioli: The pasta component filled with creamy cheese.

Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy layer.

Ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy and slightly sweet texture.

Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor.

To enhance the flavor of your ground beef, consider seasoning it with a pinch of salt and pepper while browning. Additionally, adding a small amount of minced garlic or onion can bring more depth to the dish. When layering the ravioli, ensure they are evenly spread to create a uniform texture throughout the lasagna. For a richer taste, you can mix some parmesan cheese with the ricotta cheese before layering. Finally, let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes after cooking to allow the layers to set and make it easier to serve.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can provide a similar texture and flavor profile.

• ground beef - Substitute with lentils: Lentils are a great vegetarian alternative that offer a similar meaty texture and are high in protein.

• marinara sauce - Substitute with pesto sauce: Pesto sauce provides a different but delicious flavor profile, especially if you prefer a basil and garlic taste.

• marinara sauce - Substitute with alfredo sauce: Alfredo sauce offers a creamy and rich alternative for a different take on the dish.

• frozen cheese ravioli - Substitute with frozen spinach ravioli: Spinach ravioli adds a bit of greens to the dish and complements the other flavors well.

• frozen cheese ravioli - Substitute with fresh tortellini: Fresh tortellini can provide a similar texture and flavor, and cooks quickly in the slow cooker.

• shredded mozzarella cheese - Substitute with shredded provolone cheese: Provolone has a similar melting quality and offers a slightly different flavor.

• shredded mozzarella cheese - Substitute with shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese provides a sharper taste and melts well, adding a different flavor dimension.

• ricotta cheese - Substitute with cottage cheese: Cottage cheese is a lower-fat option that provides a similar creamy texture.

• ricotta cheese - Substitute with mascarpone cheese: Mascarpone offers a richer and creamier texture, making the dish more indulgent.

• italian seasoning - Substitute with herbes de Provence: Herbes de Provence provides a similar blend of herbs with a slightly different flavor profile.

• italian seasoning - Substitute with fresh basil and oregano: Fresh herbs can provide a more vibrant and aromatic flavor compared to dried Italian seasoning.

• Allow the ravioli lasagna to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the lasagna into an airtight container. If you have a large batch, consider dividing it into smaller portions for easier reheating.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the lasagna within 3-4 days. This keeps the cheese and ground beef fresh.
• For longer storage, place the airtight container in the freezer. The lasagna can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its flavor and texture.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the lasagna in the refrigerator overnight if it was frozen. This ensures even reheating and maintains the integrity of the mozzarella cheese and ricotta cheese layers.
• Reheat the lasagna in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until it is heated through and the cheese is bubbly. Cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning.
• Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through.
• To maintain the best texture, avoid reheating the lasagna multiple times. Only reheat the amount you plan to eat immediately.
• If you notice any changes in smell, color, or texture, discard the lasagna to ensure food safety.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the leftover ravioli lasagna in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the cheese on top get bubbly and golden.

• If you're in a hurry, the microwave is your friend. Place a portion of the ravioli lasagna on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to keep the moisture in. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, then check if it's warmed through. Stir slightly and heat for another 1-2 minutes if needed.

• For a stovetop method, use a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or marinara sauce to the skillet to create steam and prevent sticking. Place the ravioli lasagna in the skillet, cover with a lid, and heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it's hot all the way through.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F. Place a portion of the ravioli lasagna in the air fryer basket, making sure it's in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it's not overcooking. This method will give you a slightly crispy top layer.

• For those who prefer a slow and steady approach, you can reheat the ravioli lasagna in the slow cooker. Set it to low and let it warm up for 1-2 hours. This method is perfect if you want to retain the dish's original texture and flavor without any risk of drying out.

• Skillet: Used to brown the ground beef over medium heat.

• Spatula: Handy for stirring and breaking up the ground beef while it cooks.

• Colander: Essential for draining the fat from the cooked ground beef.

• Slow cooker: The main appliance used to layer and cook the ravioli lasagna.

• Measuring cups: Useful for measuring out the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for spreading the marinara sauce in the slow cooker.

• Cheese grater: If you need to shred mozzarella cheese from a block.

• Mixing bowl: Optional, but can be used to mix the ricotta cheese with the Italian seasoning if desired.

• Knife: Useful for opening packages of frozen ravioli and other ingredients.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for using the knife to open packages.

Pre-cook the beef: Brown the ground beef the night before and store it in the fridge to save time on cooking day.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded mozzarella to cut down on prep time.

Layer efficiently: Organize your ingredients in the order you'll use them to streamline the layering process.

Double the recipe: Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Use jarred sauce: Choose a high-quality marinara sauce to avoid making your own from scratch.