Dollar Ravioli Casserole: A Budget-Friendly Comfort Food Delight

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Dollar Ravioli Casserole: A Budget-Friendly Comfort Food Delight

Introduction

Looking for a hearty, filling dish that won’t break the bank? Dollar Ravioli Casserole is the perfect solution. Made with frozen ravioli, marinara sauce, cheese, and a few simple seasonings, this casserole is an easy and delicious way to feed a crowd without spending much. It combines the comforting flavors of pasta and cheese with the convenience of a quick, one-pan dish. Whether for a family dinner, potluck, or weeknight meal, this dish delivers on both flavor and affordability.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

  • 1 (25 oz) package frozen ravioli (cheese or meat-filled)
  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or spaghetti sauce)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

For the Topping

  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Layer the Ravioli

  • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
  • Arrange a layer of frozen ravioli on top of the sauce. You don’t need to thaw the ravioli; they’ll cook perfectly in the oven.
  • Sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.
  • Repeat this layering process, ending with a layer of sauce and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Add the Seasonings

  • Sprinkle garlic powder, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) over the top of the casserole.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping (Optional)

  • If you want a crunchy top, mix the bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

  • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Methods

  • One-Pan Meal: This casserole is all about simplicity. No need for boiling pasta or multiple pots—everything bakes together in one dish.
  • Cheese Choices: Feel free to use a combination of mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone to adjust the flavor to your liking.
  • Customizable Layers: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or vegetables to make the casserole even heartier.

History of Ravioli Casseroles

Ravioli casseroles, like many comfort foods, have evolved from hearty Italian-American meals. The concept of layering ravioli with sauce and cheese is a popular variation of the baked ziti or lasagna, offering a simpler yet equally satisfying way to enjoy Italian flavors. Frozen ravioli became a household staple in the mid-20th century, and dishes like this casserole quickly became a go-to option for busy families looking for a quick, budget-friendly meal.

Benefits

  1. Affordable:
    • Using frozen ravioli and simple ingredients, this casserole offers a filling meal for a fraction of the cost of other pasta dishes.
  2. Customizable:
    • This dish is incredibly versatile. You can add ground meat, extra veggies, or even a layer of ricotta cheese to make it your own.
  3. Quick and Easy:
    • It takes minimal prep time and requires just a short amount of baking time, making it a great weeknight meal.
  4. Filling and Satisfying:
    • The combination of pasta, cheese, and sauce provides a comforting and filling meal, perfect for feeding a hungry family.

Formation of the Dish

The dish is formed in layers, similar to a lasagna or baked ziti. Each layer brings a different texture and flavor:

  • Frozen Ravioli: Convenient and cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing flavors while maintaining its shape.
  • Marinara Sauce: Rich and tangy, it ties the dish together.
  • Cheese: The mozzarella melts into a gooey, satisfying layer, while the Parmesan adds depth.
  • Bread Crumb Topping: For an optional crispy, golden crunch, the breadcrumb topping is baked to perfection.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 8 servings)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Total Fat: 17 g
    • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Cholesterol: 35 mg
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
    • Fiber: 2 g
    • Sugars: 6 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Vitamin A: 10% DV
  • Vitamin C: 4% DV
  • Calcium: 25% DV

Conclusion

Dollar Ravioli Casserole is an affordable, quick, and satisfying meal that brings the comfort of Italian flavors to your table. With its cheesy, savory layers, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or whenever you need a tasty, budget-friendly meal. The best part? You can make it your own by adding extra fillings or tweaking the sauce. No matter how you make it, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Lovers of Dollar Ravioli Casserole

  • Budget-Conscious Families: This casserole is a great option for anyone looking to make a filling meal without spending much.
  • Cheese Lovers: With multiple layers of gooey cheese, it’s a dream come true for cheese enthusiasts.
  • Comfort Food Seekers: Those who crave hearty, satisfying meals will fall in love with this easy casserole.
  • Busy Weeknight Cooks: Anyone needing a simple, quick dinner will appreciate how easily this dish comes together.

Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a potluck, or simply looking for a filling meal, Dollar Ravioli Casserole is the ultimate choice for comfort and affordability.

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