Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Layers of cheese ravioli, savory sausage, marinara, and creamy ricotta bake into a million dollar ravioli casserole that’s rich, cheesy, and satisfying.

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The Best Comfort Food Pasta Casserole

If you’re craving the kind of meal that checks every comfort food box, this million dollar ravioli casserole is it. Layers of cheese ravioli, savory sausage, creamy ricotta, and plenty of melted mozzarella make every bite rich and satisfying.

It has the hearty Italian flavors you’ll find in my baked beef ravioli recipe, with a creamy twist inspired by million dollar spaghetti, all baked together into one easy, family-friendly casserole.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and satisfying: Layers of ravioli, sausage, ricotta, and melty cheese make it taste like a million bucks.
• Quick and convenient: Just 15 minutes of prep time thanks to the shortcut of frozen cheese ravioli.

Ingredients Notes

Find the full printable recipe with specific measurements below.

• Italian sausage: Adds rich flavor and makes the casserole hearty.
• Marinara sauce: A good jar of sauce keeps things easy. Choose your favorite brand or use homemade marinara.
• Italian seasoning: Enhances the classic Italian flavors in both the sauce and cheese layer.
• Ricotta cheese: Creates the creamy “million dollar” layer in the middle. Use whole milk ricotta for best taste.
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the cheese mixture with a fresh pop of flavor.
• Garlic powder: Simple pantry spice that adds depth to the cheese filling.
• Frozen cheese ravioli: The shortcut that makes this casserole so quick and easy. No need to thaw before baking.
• Parmesan and mozzarella cheese: Parmesan adds sharp, salty flavor while mozzarella melts into a gooey, golden topping.

How to Make Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Brown the Italian sausage in a large oven-safe skillet, then drain the grease. Stir in marinara, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and set aside half of the sauce for layering.

In a mixing bowl, stir together the ricotta, fresh parsley, garlic powder, parmesan, and a touch of Italian seasoning until smooth and well combined. This mixture is what gives the casserole its signature “million dollar” richness.

Layer the ravioli over the meat sauce, spread the ricotta mixture on top, then finish with the reserved sauce.

Finish by sprinkling the mozzarella over the top so it bakes into a bubbly, golden layer. Place casserole into the oven and bake uncovered at 350°F for about 45 minutes.

Recipe Tips

• Choose the right dish: A large oven-safe skillet works great for cooking and baking in one pan, but you can also transfer everything to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Let it rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
• Garnish A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top brightens the rich flavors.
• Use freshly grated cheese: Grating your own mozzarella and parmesan gives you the smoothest, most even melt.
• Make ahead: Assemble the Million dollar ravioli casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Variations

• Protein swap: Use ground beef or ground turkey in place of sausage.
• Instead of ricotta: Cottage cheese works well as a substitute. For the best texture, choose small curd and drain off any excess liquid before mixing so the casserole doesn’t get watery.
• Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra veggies.
• Spicy kick: Stir crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce or use spicy Italian sausage.
• Different ravioli: Try spinach and cheese, mushroom, or meat-filled ravioli for a twist.