Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (25 ounces) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
If you’re feeling adventurous, substitute the ground beef with Italian sausage for a spicier kick or use spinach ravioli for a vegetarian twist. Mama Lou always encouraged us to get creative in the kitchen, and this recipe is no exception.
Instructions
- Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain the excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about five minutes.
- In the bottom of your crockpot, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce. This prevents sticking and adds flavor to the base of the dish.
- Layer with half of the frozen ravioli, followed by half of the ricotta cheese and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers: meat sauce, ravioli, ricotta, and mozzarella. Ensure the top layer is covered with the remaining sauce and mozzarella cheese, then sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over it.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Mama Lou would often say, “Patience is the secret ingredient,” and that holds true here.
- Once cooked, let the lasagna sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International