If you love classic lasagna but hate the time-consuming prep, this Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is the perfect solution! By using frozen ravioli instead of traditional lasagna noodles, you eliminate the need for boiling pasta and layering ricotta cheese separately—because the ravioli is already filled with creamy cheese or meat. This dump-and-go recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family dinners.
A slow cooker is one of the best tools for effortlessly making comfort food. If you’re wondering how to maximize its flavours, check out these slow cooker cooking hacks to ensure your meal turns out rich and delicious. Also, if you’re unsure whether to use fresh or frozen ravioli, this guide to pasta cooking methods will help you choose the best option for your dish.
If you love slow-cooked meals, you might also enjoy this Crockpot Chicken Alfredo for another creamy and comforting dish!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
✔ No boiling required – Just dump everything in the slow cooker!
✔ Easy cleanup – Fewer dishes compared to traditional lasagna.
✔ Minimal prep time – Ready to cook in 5 minutes.
✔ Customizable – Adjust the protein, sauce, and cheese to your taste.
✔ Perfect for meal prep – Leftovers reheat well and can be frozen.
Looking for more easy pasta dishes? Check out these healthy pasta alternatives if you want a lighter version of this meal!
Ingredients for the Best Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
This recipe requires simple pantry ingredients that create a rich, cheesy, and hearty dish.
Basic Ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef or sausage | Adds protein and richness | Ground turkey or plant-based meat |
| Garlic & Italian seasoning | Enhances the flavor | Fresh herbs |
| Pasta sauce | Provides moisture and binds everything together | Homemade marinara sauce |
| Frozen cheese ravioli | Replaces pasta + cheese layers | Spinach or meat-filled ravioli |
| Mozzarella & Parmesan | Creates a gooey, cheesy topping | Cheddar or provolone |
| Ricotta cheese (optional) | Adds extra creaminess | Cottage cheese |
💡 Pro Tip: If you love creamy pasta dishes, try pairing this lasagna with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for an indulgent meal!
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
1. Cook the Meat
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Brown the ground beef or Italian sausage until fully cooked.
- Add garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, then drain excess grease.
2. Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot
- First layer: Spread a thin layer of pasta sauce on the bottom.
- Second layer: Add a layer of frozen ravioli.
- Third layer: Spread half of the cooked meat evenly.
- Fourth layer: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the meat.
- Repeat the layers until the crockpot is full.
3. Slow Cook the Lasagna
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours (or HIGH for 2–3 hours).
- Avoid stirring—this helps maintain the lasagna layers.
4. Melt the Cheese
- Sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
- Cook uncovered for 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Easy Variations & Customizations
This Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is super flexible, so you can adjust it to your dietary needs.
Meat Lovers’ Ravioli Lasagna
✔ Use beef ravioli for extra protein.
✔ Add pepperoni, bacon, or extra Italian sausage.
Vegetarian Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
✔ Swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
✔ Use ricotta and extra mozzarella for a creamy texture.
Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Options
✔ Use gluten-free ravioli and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
✔ Read more about gluten-free pasta substitutes.
What to Serve with Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna
This hearty pasta dish pairs well with light, fresh sides:
- Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Caesar salad – Crisp and refreshing contrast.
- Roasted vegetables – Adds a nutritious balance.
If you enjoy bread-based sides, try this Sheepherder Bread a rustic, homemade bread perfect for dipping in the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to cook the ravioli before adding it to the crockpot?
No! Frozen ravioli cooks perfectly in the slow cooker without extra steps.
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time by 30-40 minutes to prevent overcooking.
What’s the best cheese for Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna?
A mix of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan creates the creamiest, most flavorful result.
How do I keep my lasagna from getting too watery?
✔ Use a thicker pasta sauce.
✔ Avoid adding extra liquid to the crockpot.
✔ Drain the cooked meat properly before layering.
Can I freeze Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna?
Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Busy weeknights call for quick, satisfying meals, and Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna delivers! With minimal prep, no boiling required, and endless ways to customize, this dish will quickly become a family favourite.
More Delicious Slow Cooker Recipes
🍪 Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies A classic sweet treat.
🥧 Applesauce Crumb Cake A spiced, moist dessert perfect after lasagna.
Now, grab your ingredients, set your crockpot, and enjoy a cheesy, comforting lasagna with zero fuss! 🍽️