Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional, for extra sauce)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 bag (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli (no need to thaw)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Cook the meat:
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), and seasonings. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Layer in the crockpot:
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
Add a single layer of frozen ravioli.
Top with more sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with sauce and cheese on top.
Cook:
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until hot and bubbly.
Serve:
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
You can use beef, sausage, turkey, or even a veggie crumble for the meat layer.
Try spinach or mushroom ravioli for a twist.
Leftovers reheat beautifully — even better the next day!
Variations
For a flavorful twist, consider substituting the ground beef with spicy Italian sausage or a plant-based ground crumble to suit different dietary preferences.
You can also experiment with the type of ravioli; a spinach and ricotta or a wild mushroom filling introduces a new dimension of flavor and a boost of vegetables.
