Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
Looking for a comforting, fuss-free dinner that tastes like it simmered all day? This Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna checks every box! You get all the savory, cheesy goodness of classic lasagna layered with tender ravioli, but thanks to your slow cooker, hands-on time is barely fifteen minutes. It’s a hearty family favorite guaranteed to have everyone gathering around the table—and asking for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is how it calls for just a handful of honest, everyday ingredients. Each one brings something special to the table—from gooey cheese pulls to the herby, rich sauce—and together they create a crowd-pleasing masterpiece in your slow cooker.
- Frozen cheese ravioli (1 bag, 25 oz): The shortcut star! No need to thaw—these pillowy pasta parcels cook up perfectly in the slow cooker, soaking up all the flavors.
- Ground beef or Italian sausage (1 pound): Choose your favorite for a rich, savory base; sausage adds extra zest, while beef keeps things classic.
- Marinara or pasta sauce (1 jar, 24 oz): Use your favorite jarred sauce; it brings tangy tomato flavor and binds everything together in saucy layers.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): For that irresistible melty blanket and all-important cheese pulls in every bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Brings a salty, nutty note to each layer, elevating the overall flavor.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Adds classic herby depth—think oregano, basil, and thyme—to perfume the whole lasagna.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): For effortless garlicky warmth, enhancing the savory notes throughout.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A small but mighty addition, balancing and boosting all the flavors.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just the right amount of gentle heat and complexity.
- Chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional): A fresh sprinkle on top brightens everything up and makes it look as good as it tastes.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating a skillet over medium and add your ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook, breaking it up with your spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked with delicious crispy bits forming. Drain off any extra fat—this keeps your lasagna hearty but not greasy. This step is essential for building those deep, meaty flavors that make Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna so comforting.
Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
Stir in the entire jar of marinara sauce, followed by Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Let everything simmer together in the pan for a minute or two so the spices can bloom and the sauce thickens just a touch. At this point, your kitchen will start smelling like an Italian trattoria—no one can resist!
Step 3: Prep the Slow Cooker
Before assembling, spray the inside of your 6-quart slow cooker with a generous mist of nonstick cooking spray. This makes serving (and cleaning up) much easier later. Next, spread a thin, even layer of your warm meat sauce right on the bottom—this keeps the ravioli from sticking and forms that classic first layer.
Step 4: Layer the Ravioli Lasagna
Add a single layer of frozen cheese ravioli directly on top of the sauce—no need to thaw them! Spoon more of your saucy meat mixture over the ravioli, then sprinkle a handful of mozzarella and a little Parmesan for maximum cheesiness. Continue building up layers: ravioli, sauce, cheese, repeating until all your ingredients are used. Be sure to finish with a lavish cheesy top layer—this will bubble up beautifully as it cooks!
Step 5: Cook to Melty Perfection
Pop the lid on and set your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the ravioli are tender and piping hot throughout. No peeking! The steam and heat do all the work, melding the flavors and transforming simple ingredients into a lasagna lovers’ dream.
Step 6: Set and Serve
Once cooked, resist diving in right away. Remove the lid and let the lasagna sit for 10 to 15 minutes, uncovered. This brief rest time allows everything to set up, making it easier to scoop neat servings. Top with fresh parsley or basil, and you’re ready to wow your crowd with Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna.
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil just before serving adds a burst of color and garden-fresh aroma. Try a dusting of extra Parmesan for added richness or a drizzle of good olive oil for a glossy finish. Garnishes give each slice of Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna an inviting, restaurant-worthy look.
Side Dishes
Pair your richly sauced lasagna with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette or some roasted garlic broccoli for a little balance. Warm, crusty bread is a must for sopping up every last drop of sauce—try a classic baguette or garlic knots for a real treat. Even simple steamed veggies make this a memorable meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve portions in individual oven-safe ramekins with a little extra parmesan melted on top. Or cut the lasagna into small squares and arrange them on a platter for a potluck or party. You can even pack leftovers in individual containers for a hearty lunch or weeknight meal prep—Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is as versatile as it is delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your leftover Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna cool fully, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it an excellent make-ahead dinner or lunch option. The flavors only get better with a little fridge time!
Freezing
If you want to save portions for later, you can freeze them! Place cooled single servings in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil and then plastic. Stored this way, your ravioli lasagna will keep for up to three months. It’s a lifesaver for future busy nights—just don’t forget to label and date your containers.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave, covered, until hot throughout (about 2-3 minutes per serving). For larger batches, bake covered in a 350°F oven until bubbling and heated through. Add a splash of water or extra sauce if it looks dry, and top with extra cheese before reheating for a little extra melty goodness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen meat or spinach ravioli instead of cheese?
Absolutely! This Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is incredibly flexible. Try different types of ravioli like spinach or even beef for a twist, just keep the cooking time the same. The added flavors and textures can make each batch uniquely delicious.
Will the ravioli get mushy in the slow cooker?
Not at all if you use them straight from frozen. They gently cook through and absorb the sauce’s flavors without falling apart, giving you perfectly tender “noodles” every time. Don’t thaw before layering—they’ll hold up best when baked from frozen.
Can I add ricotta cheese for a more classic lasagna feel?
Definitely! Spoon dollops of ricotta into the middle layers for extra creaminess. It adds that beloved lasagna texture and even more flavor. You can season the ricotta with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a little Italian seasoning before layering it in for a special touch.
What size slow cooker should I use?
This recipe works perfectly in a 6-quart slow cooker. If you have a slightly smaller or larger crockpot, just be mindful of the layers and avoid overfilling—keeping a bit of space at the top prevents overflow.
Is Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna good for meal prep?
It’s fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the lasagna the night before, keep it covered in the fridge, and start cooking when you’re ready. Leftovers make quick, satisfying lunches or no-fuss dinners later in the week—just reheat and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
This Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna brings all the magic of classic lasagna with none of the hassle. Whether you’re feeding a weeknight crowd or batch-cooking for cozy leftovers, it’s the ultimate comfort food shortcut. Don’t wait—grab your slow cooker and give it a try, then watch everyone come running for seconds!
Print
Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is a simple and delicious twist on traditional lasagna, made with layers of frozen cheese ravioli, savory meat sauce, and gooey cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal!
Ingredients
Frozen Cheese Ravioli:
1 bag (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli (do not thaw)
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage:
1 pound
Marinara or Pasta Sauce:
1 jar (24 oz)
Cheeses:
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings:
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (optional):
Chopped parsley or basil
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: In a skillet, brown and fully cook the ground beef or sausage. Drain excess grease and mix in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Layer in Slow Cooker: Spray the slow cooker with nonstick spray. Start with a layer of meat sauce, then add frozen ravioli, sauce, and cheeses. Repeat layers, ending with cheese on top.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2.5–3 hours until ravioli is tender.
- Rest and Serve: Let sit for 10–15 minutes uncovered before serving. Garnish with parsley or basil if desired.
Notes
- You can use meat or spinach ravioli for variety.
- Add a layer of ricotta for a more lasagna-like texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
