Slow Cooker Cheesy Ravioli and Meat Sauce

 Slow Cooker Cheesy Ravioli and Meat Sauce – The Ultimate Comfort Food

Nothing beats the ease and comfort of Slow Cooker Cheesy Ravioli and Meat Sauce—a simple, satisfying meal that practically cooks itself! Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prepping, this dish combines tender cheese-filled ravioli, rich meaty marinara, and gooey melted cheese into one irresistible bite. The best part? Minimal prep, maximum flavor, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Effortless & Hands-Off – Let the slow cooker do all the work!

✔ Rich & Cheesy – Layers of gooey cheese make it ultra-satisfying.

✔ Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters love this comforting dish.

✔ Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.

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Ingredients & Their Role

For the Meat Sauce:

1 lb. ground beef (or mild Italian sausage) – Adds heartiness and rich flavor.

1 cup white onion, diced – Enhances the depth of the sauce with a subtle sweetness.

½ tsp. salt – Balances and enhances all the flavors.

½ tsp. black pepper – Adds just a touch of heat.

2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the sauce with an aromatic depth.

1 (24 oz.) jar marinara sauce – The base of the sauce; use your favorite store-bought or homemade version.

1 (14.5 oz.) can diced tomatoes, drained – Adds a chunky texture and extra tomato richness.

1 tsp. Italian seasoning – A perfect blend of herbs for an authentic Italian taste.

For the Ravioli Layers:

1 (25 oz.) bag frozen cheese ravioli – No need to thaw; it cooks perfectly in the slow cooker.

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy top layer.

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty depth of flavor.

1 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for extra creaminess) – Adds a layer of creamy richness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef (or sausage) until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles.

Add the diced onion, garlic, salt, and pepper, and sauté until onions are soft (about 3-4 minutes).

Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning, then let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.

2. Assemble the Layers in the Slow Cooker

Spread ⅓ of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 5-quart (or larger) slow cooker.

Add a layer of frozen ravioli (about ⅓ of the bag).

Sprinkle with ⅓ of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

3. Cook & Serve

Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours until the ravioli is tender and the cheese is melted.

If using ricotta, dollop it on top in the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra creaminess.

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, then serve warm.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Ravioli & Meat Sauce

✔ Use Frozen Ravioli – No need to thaw! It helps prevent mushy pasta.

✔ Don’t Overcook – Keep an eye on cooking time to avoid soggy ravioli.

✔ Layer Wisely – Even layers ensure every bite is flavorful and cheesy.

✔ Enhance the Flavor – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat boost.

✔ Make It Creamier – Swirl in a little heavy cream in the last hour for a richer sauce.

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What to Serve with Slow Cooker Ravioli

Pair this indulgent dish with a few simple sides to round out the meal:

✔ Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.

✔ Caesar Salad – A crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

✔ Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini make great sides.

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Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Slow Cooker Cheesy Ravioli and Meat Sauce is the ultimate fuss-free Italian comfort food. The combination of hearty meat sauce, cheese-stuffed ravioli, and melty layers of mozzarella makes it a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you're meal prepping or feeding a hungry crowd, this recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks who crave big flavors with minimal effort.

So, grab your slow cooker and let the magic happen—your family will be begg

ing for seconds!

Have you tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and share your favorite slow cooker meals!