Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is my go-to dinner when I want something hearty, cheesy, and incredibly easy to throw together. Using frozen ravioli, rich marinara sauce, and layers of gooey cheese, I get all the flavors of traditional lasagna without the hassle of boiling noodles or spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it requires minimal prep but delivers maximum comfort. I don’t have to pre-cook anything—just layer, set, and let the slow cooker work its magic. The ravioli act as both the pasta and the filling, cutting my workload in half. Plus, I can customize it with different sauces, cheeses, or even veggies depending on what I have on hand.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Frozen cheese ravioli
- Marinara or pasta sauce
- Ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- Ricotta or cottage cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- If I’m using ground meat, I brown it in a skillet first with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- I spray the inside of my crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.
- I spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the crockpot.
- Then I begin layering: a single layer of frozen ravioli, a layer of ricotta or cottage cheese, some cooked meat (if using), a handful of mozzarella, and more sauce.
- I repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- I cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for about 2–3 hours, until the ravioli are tender and everything is bubbly and melted.
- I let it rest for 10–15 minutes before serving, then garnish with chopped parsley or basil if I want to dress it up.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6 servings. It takes just 15 minutes to prepare and cooks in 4–5 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high in the crockpot.
Variations
- I use spinach or mushroom ravioli when I want to switch up the filling.
- I mix in sautéed spinach or zucchini for a veggie boost.
- For extra flavor, I add a layer of pesto between the ravioli and cheese.
- I make it meatless by skipping the ground beef or swapping it for plant-based crumbles.
Storage/Reheating
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. I store them in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. This dish also freezes great—I portion it out and freeze in individual containers for easy lunches or dinners later. I just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, but I reduce the cooking time slightly, especially if I’m using high or medium heat settings.
Do I need to thaw the frozen ravioli first?
Nope—I add them straight to the crockpot from the freezer. They cook perfectly in the sauce as everything simmers.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. I skip the meat or use a meatless alternative and go heavy on the cheese and veggies.
What kind of sauce works best?
I usually go with a good-quality marinara or traditional pasta sauce. I sometimes mix in a bit of Alfredo for a creamy twist.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes, as long as my crockpot is large enough. I just make sure to layer evenly and add a little extra cooking time if needed.
Conclusion
Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is the ultimate lazy-day lasagna that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s cheesy, saucy, and incredibly satisfying—and the best part is how little effort it takes. When I need a comforting meal that practically cooks itself, this is the recipe I turn to every time.
Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–5 hours (low) or 2–3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes – 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is the ultimate no-fuss comfort food, layered with frozen cheese ravioli, marinara sauce, and melty cheeses. With just 15 minutes of prep, you can enjoy all the classic lasagna flavor without the boiling or baking. This easy slow cooker dinner is a family favorite and perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals!
Ingredients
- Frozen cheese ravioli
- Marinara or pasta sauce
- Ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- Ricotta or cottage cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown ground meat in a skillet with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. (Skip if making vegetarian.)
- Spray crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Layer frozen ravioli, ricotta or cottage cheese, cooked meat (if using), mozzarella, and sauce.
- Repeat layers, finishing with sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Cover and cook:
- On low: 4–5 hours
- On high: 2–3 hours
- Let rest 10–15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Swap cheese ravioli for spinach or mushroom varieties.
- Add sautéed veggies like spinach or zucchini for more nutrition.
- Add a layer of pesto for extra flavor.
- Use meatless crumbles for a vegetarian option.
- Freeze leftovers in individual portions for easy reheating.
