Slow Cooker Beef and Cheese Ravioli Lasagna

Slow Cooker Beef and Cheese Ravioli Lasagna: A Comfort Food Delight

After trying this recipe twice, it has quickly become a favorite! I’m eager to make it again soon.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium onion, coarsely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
• 1 container (15 oz) whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the ground beef, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce. Remove from heat.
2. Mix the Ricotta Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well blended.
3. Assemble the Lasagna: Begin by spreading a thin layer of the meat and sauce mixture at the bottom of your slow cooker. Layer 3/4 of the frozen ravioli over the sauce. Next, spread half of the ricotta mixture over the ravioli, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
4. Repeat the Layers: Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous topping of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the ravioli is tender and the cheese is bubbly.
6. Serve: Just before serving, garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Tips and Variations:

• Lighten It Up: Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Add a Kick: For a bit of heat, stir a teaspoon of red chili flakes into the beef mixture.
• Boost the Veggies: Add spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.

Storage Tip: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for a quick and delicious meal the next day. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

This Slow Cooker Beef and Cheese Ravioli Lasagna is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing a quick and easy dish for a potluck. Whether you’re serving it to your family or bringing it to a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit!