If you’re looking for a soul-warming meal that’s effortless but tastes like you’ve been in the kitchen all day, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna. Imagine layers of cheesy ravioli, savory meat sauce, and gooey mozzarella all bubbling together in your slow cooker, ready to satisfy any lasagna craving with a fraction of the work. It’s weeknight comfort food at its finest, and with just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll see why this dish is my go-to for both family dinners and potlucks alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna lies in its simple, robust ingredients. Each component brings essential flavor, texture, or color, so you’ve got everything you love about classic lasagna with none of the fuss.
- Frozen cheese ravioli (25 oz): No need to thaw—these serve as your “noodle” and filling in one, capturing all that creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Ground beef or Italian sausage (1 lb): Adds hearty, savory depth; pick whichever suits your tastes or try a mix for extra flavor.
- Marinara or pasta sauce (24 oz jar): The saucy base that ties the layers together—choose your favorite brand or homemade!
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp): Just a sprinkle brings all the herby, classic lasagna undertones you crave.
- Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Boosts the flavor without the hassle of mincing garlic cloves.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, the essential finish for seasoning throughout the dish.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melty, stretchy cheese makes this lasagna absolutely irresistible.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): For a golden, savory finish on top.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): A sprinkle of green adds fresh flavor and vibrant color before serving.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add your ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully browned and crumbled. Be sure to drain off any excess fat so your lasagna stays perfectly saucy—no greasy bites here!
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Next, stir in your marinara or pasta sauce, along with the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, plus a good pinch of salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors marry and the kitchen starts to smell downright amazing.
Step 3: Assemble in the Crockpot
Now comes the fun part: layering! Start by spreading a thin layer of your meat sauce on the bottom of a greased 6-quart slow cooker—this keeps the ravioli from sticking and adds extra flavor. Layer on half of the frozen cheese ravioli (no thawing needed), then cover with half of the remaining meat sauce and 1 cup of mozzarella. Repeat with the rest of the ravioli, sauce, and finish with the other cup of mozzarella. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over everything to give it that iconic lasagna top.
Step 4: Cook the Lasagna
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 4 hours, or high for 2 to 2.5 hours. Your Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is ready when it’s hot throughout, bubbly on the edges, and the cheese on top is fully melted—and tempting you with its aroma.
Step 5: Let It Rest and Serve
Once the cooking time is up, turn off the slow cooker and let your lasagna sit for 10–15 minutes. This little pause makes it easier to slice and serve, so don’t skip it! Top with fresh chopped basil or parsley, if using, for that extra burst of freshness.
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
Garnishes
This dish loves a finishing sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley—those emerald flecks liven up every serving. If you want a touch more richness, a light grating of extra Parmesan just before serving will set off the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna truly shines alongside a crisp Caesar salad or a pile of garlicky roasted vegetables. For soaking up every last bit of that sauce, serve with a basket of warm garlic bread or rustic Italian rolls.
Creative Ways to Present
For family dinners, serve big, cozy squares straight from the slow cooker. If you’re feeding a crowd or hosting, spoon individual portions into ramekins, top with fresh herbs, and add a swirl of extra sauce for a restaurant-style touch. Leftovers can even be rolled up in tortillas for creative lasagna wraps!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftover Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna to airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making for absolutely irresistible lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This lasagna is a meal prep hero! Portion out cooled leftovers, wrap tightly or use freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, microwave individual servings on medium until warmed through, or cover and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes. Sprinkle a fresh layer of cheese on top before reheating for extra gooeyness—trust me, it takes leftovers over the top!
FAQs
Can I use refrigerated ravioli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Refrigerated ravioli will work just as well and doesn’t need to be thawed before layering. It may cook a little faster, so check for doneness at the lower end of the cooking time.
Is it possible to make Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna vegetarian?
Yes, simply skip the ground meat and double up on marinara sauce. You can add layers of sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra heartiness and a pop of color.
What type Main Course
Choose any sauce you love! A classic marinara keeps flavors traditional, but a garlic or basil-forward sauce adds extra oomph. Homemade sauce is always a treat, but good-quality jarred works beautifully and keeps things quick.
Can I assemble this ahead for a party?
You sure can! Layer everything in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate. The next day, just pop it in the slow cooker and start cooking about five hours before you want to serve.
What can I substitute for mozzarella or Parmesan?
If you’re out of mozzarella, try provolone or an Italian cheese blend. For a Parmesan swap, shredded Asiago or Romano will give the dish a similarly nutty, salty finish.
Final Thoughts
There’s a comforting, homey magic that happens when you gather around a big, bubbling pot of Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna. It’s ridiculously simple, endlessly customizable, and always a hit—whether you’re feeding family or friends. I hope this recipe helps you create as many warm, laughter-filled meals as it has for me. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
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Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is a simple and delicious twist on traditional lasagna. Layers of frozen cheese ravioli, savory meat sauce, and gooey cheese are slow-cooked to perfection, making it the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 bag (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli (no need to thaw)
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef or sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
- Prepare the Sauce: Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Layer in the Slow Cooker: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a greased 6-quart slow cooker. Layer half of the frozen ravioli over the sauce, followed by half of the remaining meat sauce and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers with the rest of the ravioli, sauce, and mozzarella.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2–2.5 hours, until hot and bubbly. Let sit for 10–15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- You can add a layer of spinach or ricotta between ravioli layers for more texture.
- Use beef ravioli or spinach ravioli for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (low) or 2.5 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
