Million Dollar Ravioli Bake Recipe

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 package (25 ounces) frozen ravioli
• 1 pound ground Italian sausage
• 1 jar (28 ounces) marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 package (8 ounces) 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 creamy mozzarella cheese (such as Kraft)
• Cooking spray

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (180C). Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally, breaking up any clumps, for about 10 minutes, until browned. Once cooked, drain the fat from the skillet.
3. Add the marinara sauce to the skillet with the sausage and stir to combine. Set this meat sauce aside.
4. In a separate large bowl, mix together the ricotta, softened cream cheese, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Once combined, gently fold in the frozen ravioli, ensuring each piece is coated with the creamy mixture.
5. Transfer the ravioli mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Pour the sausage marinara sauce over the ravioli, spreading it out evenly on top.
7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the meat sauce, covering it completely.
8. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for about 45 minutes or until the dish is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
9. Allow the dish to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors set.

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. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Consult a doctor or registered dietitian if you have specific dietary concerns.

Recipe by: Natalie Gravois

Origin of Million Dollar Ravioli Bake

The "Million Dollar Ravioli Bake" is a modern American comfort food that combines the rich flavors of traditional Italian cuisine with the convenience of pre-made ingredients. While its exact origins remain unclear, this dish is part of a growing trend of "bake" recipes that simplify Italian classics. The use of frozen ravioli and pre-made marinara sauce makes it an easy, family-friendly meal, perfect for busy weeknights. It has quickly gained popularity due to its deliciousness and simplicity, resembling the hearty and comforting dishes found in Italian-American kitchens.

Regional Variations

Though this dish is popular across the United States, its roots can be traced to Italian-American cuisine, particularly in regions with a large Italian immigrant population, such as New York and New Jersey. The use of frozen ravioli, which can be found in most grocery stores, allows this dish to be made quickly, but in Italy, ravioli is traditionally made by hand, often with fresh pasta and seasonal ingredients. In some variations, sausage might be swapped for other meats like ground beef or turkey, depending on regional preferences.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Million Dollar Ravioli Bake shares similarities with other baked pasta dishes, such as lasagna or baked ziti, but with a few key differences. The most notable distinction is the use of ravioli instead of standard pasta. Ravioli adds a creamy, cheese-filled center that melts beautifully during baking, giving the dish a rich, indulgent texture. Additionally, the addition of both ricotta and cream cheese in the filling creates a velvety richness that sets it apart from more traditional pasta bakes.

Where It's Typically Served

This dish is often served in casual, family-style settings. It's a perfect option for a hearty dinner at home, especially when feeding a crowd. Due to its ease of preparation, it's also a popular choice for potlucks, gatherings, and casual dinner parties. The combination of pasta, sausage, and cheese makes it a comforting and satisfying meal that appeals to both adults and children. Some might even serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.

Interesting Facts

• The name "Million Dollar" comes from the indulgent combination of ingredients used in the recipeplenty of cheese, sausage, and a creamy filling that makes the dish feel luxurious.
• Although its an American creation, the flavors of the dish closely resemble a traditional Italian-style baked pasta, which is often made with fresh pasta, rich sauces, and abundant cheese.
• Frozen ravioli, a key ingredient in this recipe, has become a staple in many American homes due to its convenience and versatility. It allows for quick assembly of hearty meals, especially when time is limited.
• Variations of this dish may incorporate different cheeses or meats based on personal preferences. For example, some people use ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version, or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Ravioli Bake is a perfect fusion of convenience and indulgence. It brings the warmth and comfort of Italian-American cuisine into the modern kitchen with ease. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or serving it at a gathering, its a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. With its rich, cheesy layers and hearty sausage sauce, it truly earns its "million-dollar" title!

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