Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to this delicious slow cooker ravioli lasagna recipe! If you’re a fan of lasagna but don’t have the time or energy to make it from scratch, this recipe is for you. With the convenience of using store-bought ravioli and the ease of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a hearty and comforting meal without all the fuss. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or simply looking for a hassle-free dinner option, this slow cooker ravioli lasagna will surely become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 1 pound of ground beef

– 1 onion, diced

– 3 cloves of garlic, minced

– 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes

– 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce

– 2 teaspoons of dried basil

– 2 teaspoons of dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon of salt

– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

– 1 package (25 ounces) of frozen cheese ravioli

– 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Steps

Follow these simple steps to make your slow cooker ravioli lasagna:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.

2. Drain any excess grease from the skillet, then add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine, and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of your slow cooker to prevent the ravioli from sticking.

4. Layer half of the frozen cheese ravioli on top of the sauce. Top with half of the remaining meat sauce, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Repeat the layers with the remaining ravioli, meat sauce, and cheeses.

6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the ravioli is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Once cooked, remove the lid and let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.

Tips and Variations

– Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.

– For a meatless version, you can omit the ground beef and use a combination of different cheeses, like ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

– If you prefer a spicier lasagna, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the meat sauce.

– Experiment with different types of ravioli, such as spinach and cheese or butternut squash, to add extra flavor and variety.

Tips

– To make clean-up easier, consider using a slow cooker liner before adding the ingredients.

– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick and satisfying meal.

– Serve this slow cooker ravioli lasagna with a side salad and some garlic bread for a complete and filling dinner.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this slow cooker ravioli lasagna recipe is a fantastic option for those who crave the flavors of traditional lasagna but want a simpler and more convenient cooking method. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. So, grab your slow cooker and give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!