INSTRUCTIONS:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned and cooked through. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is softened and translucent. Drain any excess grease.
- Transfer the cooked meat mixture to your slow cooker. Add the marinara sauce, drained diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and coat the meat with the sauce mixture.
- Arrange a layer of frozen cheese ravioli over the sauce in the slow cooker, covering the sauce evenly.
- Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese and shredded Parmesan cheese over the ravioli, ensuring even coverage.
- Repeat the layering process by adding another layer of meat sauce, followed by another layer of ravioli and cheeses. Continue layering until you've used all the ingredients, ending with a final layer of cheeses on top.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the ravioli lasagna on low heat for 4-5 hours or until the ravioli is tender and cooked through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let the lasagna sit for a few minutes to set slightly.
- Use a spatula to carefully serve portions of the slow cooker ravioli lasagna onto plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness, if desired.
- CREATIVE TIPS:
- Add a Layer of Spinach: For extra nutrition and flavor, add a layer of fresh spinach leaves between the ravioli and cheese layers.
- Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat sauce for added texture and nutrients.
- Experiment with Cheese: Mix in different types of cheeses such as ricotta or provolone to create your unique cheesy blend.
The Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna recipe offers a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of classic lasagna without the hassle of layering noodles. With simple ingredients and the magic of slow cooking, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that will delight your taste buds and impress your loved ones. Get ready to savor each cheesy, saucy bite of this flavorful slow cooker creation, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy the culinary journey and embrace the comfort of homemade ravioli lasagna made with a twist
