Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

Lasagna is a comfort food favorite that brings everyone around the table, but traditional recipes can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. That’s where this Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe comes in to save the day. Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you just want something cozy without all the fuss, this dish takes the rich, cheesy essence of lasagna and combines it with the convenience of your slow cooker. Using just a handful of ingredients, including ravioli, marinara sauce, Italian sausage or ground beef, and gooey cheese, you get all the satisfying flavors of lasagna with a fraction of the work.

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Instead of layering cooked noodles, ricotta, and sauce, you just layer pre-made ravioli, your favorite marinara, seasoned meat, and cheese. Set it, forget it, and come back to a bubbling, melty dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or just indulging in a cheesy pasta night, this crockpot version of lasagna is bound to become a go-to favorite. It’s comfort food made easy—with all the flavor and none of the stress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Super Easy to Prepare – No boiling noodles or complicated layering—just stack and go!
  2. Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
  3. Perfect for Busy Schedules – Let your slow cooker do the work while you go about your day.
  4. Versatile – Swap in different ravioli or proteins to suit your tastes.
  5. Freezer-Friendly – Great for batch cooking and storing for later meals.

Ingredients

  • Italian sausage or ground beef
  • Marinara sauce
  • Refrigerated or frozen ravioli (any flavor)
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Grated parmesan cheese

Variations

Vegetarian

Skip the meat and layer with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option.

Different Ravioli Flavors

Try cheese, spinach, or even mushroom-filled ravioli to switch up the flavors.

Extra Cheesy

Add a layer of ricotta or cottage cheese for more creaminess and a true lasagna texture.

Spice It Up

Use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.

Add Veggies

Mix in chopped bell peppers, onions, or fresh basil for added flavor and nutrition.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage or ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess grease.

Step 2

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the crockpot.

Step 3

Layer half of the ravioli over the sauce.

Step 4

Add half of the cooked meat, then sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan.

Step 5

Repeat with another layer of sauce, ravioli, meat, and cheese.

Step 6

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until hot and bubbly.

Step 7

Turn off the crockpot and let it sit uncovered for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Use refrigerated ravioli for quicker cooking; if using frozen, no need to thaw.
  • Don’t over-layer—the crockpot works best with 2–3 layers.
  • Lightly spray your crockpot with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
  • Let it rest after cooking so it firms up for easier serving.
  • For a crispier top, transfer to an oven-safe dish and broil for a few minutes.

How to Serve

Serve warm with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Sprinkle with extra parmesan or fresh basil for a gourmet touch. Pair with a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon for a lovely dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm larger portions in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen ravioli directly?

Yes, you can add them straight from the freezer—no need to thaw.

2. Do I need to cook the meat beforehand?

Yes, browning the meat before adding it to the crockpot enhances flavor and texture.

3. Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables or plant-based crumbles.

4. What size crockpot works best?

A 6-quart crockpot is ideal for this recipe.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but make sure your crockpot has enough room to accommodate extra layers.

6. How do I prevent the bottom from burning?

Spread a layer of sauce first and avoid high heat; low and slow works best.

7. Can I use jarred marinara?

Yes, any store-bought or homemade marinara sauce works fine.

8. Is this freezer-friendly?

Definitely! Freeze after cooking or assemble and freeze before cooking.

9. Can I add extra cheese?

Go for it! Add as much cheese as your heart desires.

10. How long does it need to cook?

Cook on low for about 4 hours or until fully heated and bubbly.

Conclusion

This Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna brings the best of both worlds—comforting lasagna flavor with the effortless prep of a slow cooker meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a hearty, cheesy dish that’s perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or lazy weekends. Versatile and foolproof, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again. Whether you keep it classic or customize it with your favorite flavors, one thing’s for sure—this crockpot lasagna is pure magic in every bite. Give it a try and make dinner a delicious breeze!

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Easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna Recipe


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  • Author: Julie
  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes – 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A hearty, family-friendly lasagna made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Layers of cheese ravioli, savory meat sauce, and melted mozzarella create a comforting meal with minimal prep.


Ingredients

  • 1 pound (454g) ground beef or Italian sausage

  • 1 medium onion, chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 jar (24 oz / 680g) marinara sauce

  • 1 package (25 oz / 709g) frozen cheese ravioli

  • 2 cups (16 oz / 454g) shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

  • Prepare the Meat Sauce:
    In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef (or sausage) until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

  • Assemble in Crockpot:
    Spray the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick spray. Layer as follows: a thin layer of meat sauce, a layer of frozen ravioli, more meat sauce, a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat layers, finishing with a top layer of sauce and cheeses.

  • Cook:
    Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours, or until ravioli is tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.

 

  • Serve:
    Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot with garlic bread and a side salad.

Notes

No need to thaw the ravioli before layering.

For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.

For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh garlic and chopped onion into the meat sauce.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3–4 hours on LOW
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker​
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

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