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- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce - 2 cups ricotta cheese - 1 (16-ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli - 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper The main ingredients for this dish create a rich and filling meal. The marinara sauce gives it a classic Italian flavor. Ricotta cheese adds creaminess, while frozen cheese ravioli makes it easy. Using a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese brings great taste and texture. Mozzarella melts well, giving that gooey stretch we love. Parmesan adds a nice salty kick and depth. For spices, dried oregano and garlic powder add warmth and earthiness. Salt and pepper enhance the dish's overall flavor. Each ingredient plays a key role in this easy dinner. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Mixing the Ricotta Mixture In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of ricotta cheese with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir until it is well mixed and set it aside. - Spraying the Crockpot Take your crockpot and spray the inside with cooking spray. This will help keep the lasagna from sticking and make cleanup easier. - First Layer of Marinara Sauce Start by spreading a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of your crockpot. Use about one-third of the jar (around 8 ounces). This layer gives the ravioli a nice sauce to cook in. - Subsequent Layers Process Add one-third of the frozen ravioli on top of the sauce. Then, spread half of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli. Sprinkle one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat these layers: marinara sauce, remaining ravioli, rest of the ricotta, and another third of mozzarella. Finish with a final layer of marinara sauce. Top that with the rest of the mozzarella and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over it. - Setting the Time and Temperature Cover the crockpot with its lid. Set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. The ravioli should be cooked through, and the cheese will be melted and bubbly. - Final Steps Before Serving When the cooking time is up, turn off the crockpot. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set nicely. If you want, add fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor. - Presentation Tips: Serve the ravioli lasagna straight from the crockpot. Use bowls for each serving. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top. This makes it look even more delicious! - Garnishing with Fresh Basil: Fresh basil leaves can brighten your dish. Just add them right before serving. They add color and a lovely aroma. - Ensuring Even Cooking: Stir the layers gently after a few hours. This helps the heat spread evenly. You want all ravioli to cook well, so check the edges too. - Adjusting Cooking Time for Frozen Ravioli: If you use frozen ravioli, keep the cooking time in mind. It usually takes about 4 to 5 hours on low. If your crockpot runs hot, check sooner. - Not Prepping the Crockpot: Always spray the inside with cooking spray. This prevents sticking. If you skip this step, your lasagna may not come out easily. - Incorrect Layering Technique: Layering matters for cooking. Start with sauce, then ravioli, followed by the cheese mixture. Follow this order for the best results. Mixing up the order can lead to uneven cooking. Pro Tips Layering is Key: Make sure to layer the ingredients evenly to ensure the ravioli cooks properly and the flavors meld together beautifully. Use Quality Marinara: The flavor of your lasagna will largely depend on the marinara sauce you choose, so opt for a high-quality brand or homemade sauce for the best results. Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your lasagna by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or even cooked ground meat for extra flavor and texture. Let it Rest: Allow the lasagna to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to dish out and enhancing the overall presentation. {{image_2}} You can mix up your Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna by using different types of ravioli. Try mushroom, spinach, or even butternut squash ravioli. Each variety adds a unique taste. You can also add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. Chop the veggies and layer them in between the ravioli. This adds color and flavor. If you're looking for dairy-free cheese options, there are many available. Brands like Daiya or Kite Hill offer good choices. You can also experiment with different cheese combos. Blend mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a new twist. Each cheese brings its special flavor to the dish. To give your lasagna a kick, add red pepper flakes. This adds heat without overpowering. You can also include Italian sausage or ground beef for a heartier meal. Brown the meat first and mix it with the marinara sauce. This adds depth and richness to the overall flavor. To store leftovers, let your Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh. You can also cover the crockpot with a lid if you plan to eat it soon. For the best taste, eat leftovers within 3 to 5 days. Make sure your fridge stays at 40°F or below for safety. You can freeze portions for later use. Cut the lasagna into single servings. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. This helps prevent freezer burn. To reheat from frozen, take a portion out and let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, heat it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 to 25 minutes. You can also microwave it, but this may change the texture. Keep ingredients fresh by storing them properly. For cheese, wrap it in wax paper and then in plastic wrap. This allows it to breathe while staying moist. For sauces, store them in glass jars. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. This method keeps them flavorful for longer. For long-term storage, consider vacuum sealing dry ingredients. This keeps air out and helps them last for months. Cooking Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna takes about 4 to 5 hours on low heat. The exact time can vary based on your crockpot model. Each crockpot heats differently, so check your dish as it cooks. Factors that affect cooking time include: - The type of crockpot you use - The thickness of the layers - The temperature of your ingredients Yes, you can use fresh ravioli! Fresh ravioli cooks faster than frozen ravioli. This change can make your dish even more delicious. However, keep in mind: - Fresh ravioli may need less cooking time. - You might want to reduce cooking time to about 3 hours on low. Yes, layering is important for the best flavor and texture. It helps the ravioli cook evenly and absorb the sauce. You can layer in this way: - Start with a layer of marinara sauce. - Follow with ravioli, ricotta, and mozzarella. - Repeat this until you run out of ingredients. If you want to try different methods, you can mix the ingredients together before layering. This can add a unique twist to the dish! In this article, we covered making a delicious Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna. We explored key ingredients, including marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and frozen ravioli. You learned step-by-step instructions, tips for even cooking, and common mistakes to avoid. I shared variations to customize your dish and storage tips to keep it fresh. Remember, cooking should be fun and flexible. Experiment with flavors and ingredients. Enjoy your tasty creation with friends and family!

Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna

A delicious and easy lasagna made with layers of ravioli, cheese, and marinara sauce, cooked in a crockpot.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 24 ounce jar marinara sauce
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 16 ounce package frozen cheese ravioli
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • to taste Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside.
  • Spray the inside of the crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  • Begin layering: Start with a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the crockpot.
  • Add a third of the frozen ravioli on top of the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, and a third of the mozzarella cheese.
  • Repeat the layers: Add another layer of marinara sauce, followed by the remaining ravioli, the rest of the ricotta mixture, another third of mozzarella, and finish with a final layer of marinara sauce.
  • Top the last layer of sauce with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
  • Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the ravioli is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Once done, turn off the crockpot and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes before serving.
  • Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Notes

Serve directly from the crockpot in bowls, and finish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh basil for a pop of color.
Keyword cheese, crockpot, easy, lasagna, ravioli