Are you looking for a wholesome and time-saving dinner recipe that will leave your family craving for more? Look no further! Our Crock Pot Ravioli Casserole is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s not only easy to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to make your life easier while treating your taste buds to a burst of Italian-inspired goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get into the step-by-step instructions, let’s gather all the ingredients for our Crock Pot Ravioli Casserole:
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 can stewed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 10-ounce frozen spinach, thawed (or fresh spinach for a more vibrant touch, optional)
- 16-ounce bowtie pasta, cooked
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to start creating your Crock Pot Ravioli Casserole.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s break down the cooking process into simple steps:
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics
In a large skillet, brown the lean ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is no longer pink. This initial step infuses your casserole with rich flavors.
Step 2: Crock-Pot Magic
Transfer the browned beef, onion, and garlic mixture into your crock pot. Now, it’s time to add the tomato sauce, stewed tomatoes, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to ensure all those flavors blend harmoniously.
Step 3: Slow Cook Magic
Set your crock-pot to low and let the mixture simmer for 6-7 hours. This slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Final Touches
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, it’s time to elevate your casserole. Add the fresh (or thawed) spinach, cooked bowtie pasta, shredded parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of mozzarella. Mix everything thoroughly for an even distribution of flavors and ingredients.
Step 5: The Cheesy Crown
Before serving, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese on top of your Crock Pot Ravioli Casserole. Cover and let it melt to perfection.
Food and Drink Pairings
Pair this Crock Pot Ravioli Casserole with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal. A glass of red wine or sparkling water with a twist of lemon complements it beautifully.