Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can assemble the ingredients and let the slow cooker handle the rest.
Rich and Comforting: Layers of savory meat sauce, tender ravioli, and melted cheese create a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Versatile: Easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables or to accommodate dietary preferences.
Ideal for Busy Schedules: Set it in the morning and have a hearty dinner ready by evening, making it perfect for busy days.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon chopped garlic
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 (24-ounce) jars prepared pasta sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 (25-ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, chopped garlic, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the meat is browned and crumbly, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the pasta sauce, Italian seasoning, basil, and oregano into the browned meat.
Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
- Ladle a generous layer of the meat sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add a layer of frozen cheese ravioli over the sauce.
- Continue layering with meat sauce and ravioli, alternating until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of meat sauce.
Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 3 to 5 hours.
- About 45 minutes to 1 hour before serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top, cover, and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 4 to 5 hours on low

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and add layers of sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like provolone, ricotta, or Parmesan for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Allow the lasagna to cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Portion the lasagna into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

1. How do I prevent the ravioli from becoming mushy?

To prevent mushiness, avoid overcooking. Check for doneness at the 3-hour mark, as slow cooker times can vary.

2. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time by about an hour to prevent overcooking the pasta.

3. What type of pasta sauce works best?

A hearty marinara or traditional pasta sauce complements this dish well. Choose one that suits your taste preferences.

4. Can I add vegetables to this lasagna?

Absolutely! Sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach make excellent additions.

5. Is it necessary to brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker?

Browning the meat enhances flavor and texture, making it a recommended step.

6. Can I assemble this dish the night before?

Yes, you can assemble it, refrigerate overnight, and start cooking the next day. Ensure it reaches room temperature before cooking.

7. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free ravioli and ensure that all other ingredients, like the pasta sauce, are gluten-free.

8. What sides pair well with this lasagna?

A fresh green salad and garlic bread complement this dish nicely.

9. Can I cook this on high to reduce cooking time?

Cooking on high is not recommended, as it may cause the ravioli to overcook.

10. How do I prevent the cheese from sticking to the lid?

Place a layer of paper towels under the lid to catch condensation, preventing it from dripping onto the cheese.

Conclusion

Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna offers a convenient and delicious twist on traditional lasagna. Its ease of preparation, coupled with rich flavors and adaptability, makes it a valuable addition to any meal plan.