Crockpot Ravioli Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Crockpot Ravioli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy days. Combining hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and melted cheeses all slow-cooked to perfection, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs. lean ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz.) can stewed tomatoes
• 1 tsp. oregano
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 10 oz. frozen spinach, thawed (or fresh spinach)
• 16 oz. bowtie pasta, cooked
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is cooked through and the onion is softened. Drain any excess fat.
2. Step 2: Transfer the beef mixture to the crockpot. Add the tomato sauce, stewed tomatoes, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Step 3: Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours to let the flavors meld together.
4. Step 4: About 30 minutes before serving, add the thawed spinach, cooked bowtie pasta, parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese to the crockpot. Stir well and switch the crockpot to high.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly on top and let it melt during the last 30 minutes.
6. Step 6: Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, comforting casserole.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce before cooking.
• Use fresh spinach instead of frozen for a brighter taste and texture.
• Swap bowtie pasta for your favorite shape, like penne or rotini.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a suitable container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes chopped finely for canned stew tomatoes and tomato sauce. You might need to cook a little longer to break them down and develop the sauce.

Do I have to cook the pasta before adding it to the crockpot?

It’s best to cook the pasta beforehand to avoid it becoming mushy. Adding cooked pasta during the last 30 minutes keeps it tender but firm.

Crockpot Ravioli Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 86 reviews

This hearty Crockpot Ravioli Casserole combines ground beef, flavorful tomato sauce, and tender pasta with fresh spinach and melted cheese for a comforting and easy slow-cooked meal perfect for busy weeknights.

• Author: Rami
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
• Total Time: 6 hours 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs. lean ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz.) can stewed tomatoes
• 1 tsp. oregano
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 10 oz. frozen spinach, thawed (or fresh spinach)
• 16 oz. bowtie pasta, cooked
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Brown the meat and aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat.
2. Prepare slow cooker base: Transfer the browned beef mixture to the crockpot. Add the tomato sauce, stewed tomatoes, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine evenly.
3. Cook in crockpot: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
4. Add remaining ingredients: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, turn the crockpot to high. Add the thawed (or fresh) spinach, cooked bowtie pasta, parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir well to combine.
5. Finish with melted cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15-30 minutes.
6. Serve and enjoy: Once done, scoop out portions onto plates and serve warm. This casserole is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Notes

• If fresh spinach is used, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking as well.
• You can substitute bowtie pasta with any short pasta like penne or rotini.
• For a lower-fat option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will soften further in the crockpot.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.

Keywords: crockpot casserole, ravioli casserole, slow cooker pasta, ground beef recipe, comfort food, easy dinner