Description
Tired of traditional lasagna taking forever? This Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna is your new favorite kitchen hack! It’s the ultimate easy dinner idea—using frozen ravioli instead of noodles, slow-cooked with rich marinara, seasoned beef, melty mozzarella, and optional ricotta for creamy layers. This is perfect for busy weeknights, quick comfort food cravings, or even a cozy weekend meal prep. Whether you’re looking for family dinner ideas, hearty food ideas, or a no-fuss pasta recipe, this one’s a must-try.
Ingredients
1 25 oz bag frozen cheese ravioli
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 24 oz jar marinara or pasta sauce
1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
1 tsp Italian seasoning
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until browned and onions are soft, about 6–8 minutes. Add garlic during the last minute. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in marinara sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
3. Spoon a layer of meat sauce into the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
4. Add a single layer of frozen ravioli.
5. Spoon dollops of ricotta (if using), and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Repeat layers: sauce → ravioli → ricotta (optional) → cheese.
7. Finish with a final layer of sauce and shredded cheese.
8. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours until hot and bubbly.
9. Turn off heat and let sit uncovered for 10–15 minutes to firm up.
10. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve.
Notes
Use frozen ravioli to avoid overcooked pasta—do not thaw.
Let the lasagna rest before slicing to help it hold its shape.
Add cheese during the last hour to keep it perfectly melted, not rubbery.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅛ of recipe)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: easy dinner, ravioli lasagna, slow cooker recipes, comfort food