Looking for a hearty, family-friendly dinner that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor? This Slow Cooker Beef and Cheese Ravioli Lasagna is your new weeknight go-to. With rich layers of meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and cheesy ravioli, it’s everything you love about lasagna—without all the effort
Why This Ravioli Lasagna Recipe Works
Set it and forget it: Perfect for busy weeknights or low-effort weekends.
Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly: Crowd-pleasing and perfect for leftovers.
Faster than traditional lasagna: No need to boil noodles or bake layers.
Budget meal idea: Uses affordable ingredients that feed a crowd.
Ingredients Breakdown:
For the Meat Sauce:
Olive Oil (1 tbsp): For sautéing the aromatics.
Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with rich, savory flavor.
Ground Beef (1 lb): Hearty and satisfying protein base.
Salt, Pepper, Italian Seasoning (to taste, 1 tsp): Classic seasonings for balance and flavor.
Marinara Sauce (24 oz): Binds everything together with tomatoey goodness.
For the Cheese Filling:
Ricotta Cheese (15 oz): Creamy, rich layer for lasagna texture.
Egg (1): Helps bind the ricotta filling.
Chopped Parsley (2 tbsp + garnish): Adds freshness and color.
For the Lasagna Layers:
Frozen Cheese Ravioli (25 oz): A clever lasagna noodle substitute—cheesy, tender, and no boiling required.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (3 cups): Melty, gooey topping that makes every bite irresistible.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup): Adds nutty sharpness and depth.
Pro Tips for Perfect Ravioli Lasagna
Use frozen ravioli for the best texture—they won’t overcook during the long simmer.
Swap in sausage or ground turkey for a different flavor profile.
Use a liner or spray your slow cooker to make cleanup easy.
Add spinach or sautéed mushrooms for a veggie boost.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and add roasted veggies or extra cheese.
Spicy twist: Use spicy Italian sausage or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Cheese lovers: Add a layer of provolone or fontina for an extra gooey bite.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave or bake until hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the layers in your slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Start cooking when ready.
Do I need to thaw the ravioli first?
Nope! Frozen ravioli works perfectly and keeps the lasagna from getting mushy.
Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Absolutely. Cottage cheese is a great budget-friendly substitute.
