Imagine creating a mouthwatering Italian classic with minimal effort and maximum flavor - that's exactly what this Crockpot Shortcut Ravioli Lasagna delivers! If you're tired of spending hours in the kitchen but craving a comforting, cheesy masterpiece, this recipe is your culinary lifesaver. By transforming frozen ravioli into a stunning layered lasagna, you'll impress your family and friends without breaking a sweat. Get ready to unlock the secret to the most delicious and effortless meal that looks like it took hours to prepare!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare your slow cooker by lightly spraying the interior with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with Italian seasoning, stirring until well blended and herbs are evenly distributed.
- Begin layering ingredients in the crockpot: Start with a thin layer of marinara sauce covering the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent ravioli from sticking.
- Arrange a single layer of frozen cheese ravioli directly on the sauce, slightly overlapping to ensure complete coverage.
- Spread half of the seasoned ricotta cheese over the ravioli layer, using a spatula to create an even coating.
- Sprinkle a portion of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the ricotta layer.
- Pour another layer of marinara sauce over the cheese, ensuring all ingredients are lightly covered.
- Repeat the layering process: ravioli, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and marinara sauce until all ingredients are used, typically creating 2-3 layers.
- Ensure the top layer is covered with sauce and sprinkled with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 4 hours, or until ravioli is heated through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once cooking is complete, turn off the slow cooker and let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes to allow it to set and make serving easier.
- Serve hot, using a large serving spoon to scoop out portions, ensuring each serving has layers of ravioli, cheese, and sauce.
Tips
- Use non-stick cooking spray generously to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Don't thaw the ravioli - add them frozen directly into the crockpot for best texture.
- Layer ingredients carefully, ensuring each layer is evenly distributed for consistent flavor.
- For extra richness, consider using a blend of cheeses or adding some fresh herbs.
- Let the lasagna rest after cooking to help it set and make serving easier.
- If you prefer a crispy top, you can briefly broil the lasagna in the oven after slow cooking.
- Experiment with different marinara sauces or add some ground meat for variation.
- Use a large serving spoon to maintain the beautiful layered presentation when serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 65mg
