Million Dollar Ravioli Bake Recipe

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe is based on its original yield. Quantities adjust automatically for servings, but cooking steps and times remain consistent. The original recipe yields 8 servings.

• Cooking spray
• 1 (25-ounce) package frozen ravioli
• 1 pound ground Italian sausage
• 1 (28-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (180C) and lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks, approximately 10 minutes. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce with the cooked sausage and remove from heat. Set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, softened cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
5. Add the frozen ravioli to the cheese mixture and gently toss until every piece is coated.
6. Spread the coated ravioli evenly across the prepared baking dish.
7. Pour the sausage and marinara mixture over the ravioli, ensuring full coverage.
8. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
9. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Allow the baked ravioli to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 679
• Total Fat: 45g (58% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 22g (111% DV)
• Cholesterol: 125mg (42% DV)
• Sodium: 1569mg (68% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 34g (12% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (11% DV)
• Total Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 34g (68% DV)
• Vitamin C: 2mg (3% DV)
• Calcium: 465mg (36% DV)
• Iron: 3mg (16% DV)
• Potassium: 723mg (15% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Nutrient information may vary depending on ingredients and preparation methods. Consult a dietitian if you follow a medically restrictive diet.

The Fascinating Story Behind Million Dollar Ravioli Bake

The Million Dollar Ravioli Bake, despite its modern-sounding name, draws inspiration from traditional Italian baked pasta dishes, particularly lasagna and stuffed pasta casseroles. Its origin can be traced back to mid-20th century Italian-American communities in the United States, where home cooks sought ways to simplify labor-intensive pasta dishes without sacrificing flavor. By using pre-made ravioli, creamy cheeses, and hearty meat sauce, this dish transformed the classic ravioli into a convenient, indulgent casserole perfect for family dinners.

Regional Variations and Adaptations

While rooted in Italian-American cuisine, the dish has regional variations across the United States. In the Midwest, cooks often incorporate cream cheese or cottage cheese to add richness, while West Coast versions may include sun-dried tomatoes or spinach in the cheese mixture for extra freshness. Southern adaptations sometimes feature spicier sausages or a layer of cornbread crumbs on top for texture. Each version reflects local tastes, making the bake versatile and highly customizable.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

The Million Dollar Ravioli Bake differs from classic lasagna or stuffed shells primarily in convenience and structure. Instead of assembling multiple layers of noodles, ricotta, and sauce, this dish uses pre-cooked ravioli, which eliminates the need for boiling and layering. Unlike traditional ravioli dishes served individually, this bake offers a one-pan solution that marries the flavors of cheese, meat, and sauce in a creamy, cohesive casserole. Its richness, owing to the combination of ricotta, cream cheese, and sour cream, sets it apart from simpler pasta bakes.

Where Its Commonly Served

This comforting dish is most often served at home during family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings. Its a popular choice for weeknight meals due to its simplicity and crowd-pleasing appeal. Restaurants and cafes specializing in Italian-American cuisine occasionally feature similar baked ravioli dishes, though homemade versions remain the most beloved for their hearty, homestyle flavor.

Interesting Facts and Trivia

• The name "Million Dollar" emphasizes the richness and indulgence of the dish rather than its cost.
• Frozen ravioli, a modern convenience, revolutionized how quickly this dish could be prepared compared to traditional handmade ravioli casseroles.
• The combination of ricotta, cream cheese, and sour cream creates a velvety texture that keeps the bake moist and creamy even after baking.
• Despite being an Italian-American creation, its appeal has spread internationally due to the simplicity and familiar flavors of cheese, pasta, and tomato sauce.
• Some food enthusiasts consider it a "lazy lasagna" because it offers all the richness of lasagna without the multiple layers and labor-intensive assembly.

FAQ about Million Dollar Ravioli Bake Recipe

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