Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna

by

The Ultimate No-Fuss Cheesy Lasagna Made Right in Your Slow Cooker

Introduction

Lasagna is a timeless comfort food—layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and melty cheese, all baked into a bubbling casserole of savory joy. But what if you could enjoy the same indulgence with a fraction of the work? That’s where Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna comes in.

This recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you want a hearty, satisfying meal but don’t have the energy for complex prep. Using frozen cheese ravioli, store-bought marinara sauce, and simple layering techniques, you can replicate the flavors of a classic lasagna without boiling noodles or firing up the oven.

Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping, this dish is both versatile and crowd-pleasing. And since it’s all cooked in your slow cooker, the hands-off approach gives you hours of freedom while dinner simmers to perfection.

 Ingredients (US Measurements)

Here’s everything you need to bring this lazy lasagna to life. Serves 6 generously.

Protein Base:

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 cup diced white onion (approximately 1 medium onion)

Seasoning:

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

Sauce:

  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

Pasta:

  • 1 (25 oz) bag frozen cheese ravioli (do not thaw)

Cheese:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
    (Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan for extra flavor)

 Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours (on LOW)

  • Total Time: Approx. 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes

  • Difficulty Level: Easy

  • Calories: ~450–500 kcal per serving (varies depending on brands used)

 Instructions (Step-by-Step)

Follow these clear steps to prepare your Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna from scratch:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion.

  2. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.

  3. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft (about 6–8 minutes).

  4. Drain off any excess fat to prevent a greasy final dish.

Tip: Want a deeper flavor? Add a splash of red wine or beef broth while browning.

Step 2: Assemble in the Crockpot

Layering is key for a well-structured lasagna. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Lightly spray or grease the bottom of the slow cooker.

  2. Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly on the bottom.

  3. Arrange half of the frozen ravioli in a single layer over the sauce.

  4. Spoon half of the beef-onion mixture over the ravioli.

  5. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat.

  6. Repeat the layering:

    • Remaining marinara sauce

    • Remaining ravioli

    • Remaining beef mixture

    • Top with the final cup of cheese

Optional: Sprinkle grated Parmesan on the top layer for added sharpness.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

  1. Cover the crockpot with its lid.

  2. Set to LOW heat and cook for 3 to 4 hours.

  3. Check at the 3-hour mark: the ravioli should be tender, and cheese fully melted.

Do not overcook! If left too long, ravioli may become mushy.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

  1. Once cooked, turn off the heat and let the lasagna rest 10 minutes before serving.

  2. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to spoon out portions.

  3. Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil if desired.

Pair with garlic bread, salad, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

 Serving Suggestions

  • Serves: 6 hearty portions

  • Serving Size: About 1 ½ cups per person

  • Calories per Serving: ~450–500 kcal
    (Estimate based on regular ground beef and full-fat cheese)

Use lean beef or turkey and low-fat cheese to reduce calorie content.

 Pro Tips

Maximize flavor and texture with these expert tweaks:

 Meat Variations:

  • Use ground Italian sausage or a mix of beef and pork for more depth.

  • Try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

 Cheese Boost:

  • Swap mozzarella with an Italian cheese blend.

  • Add ricotta between layers for a more lasagna-like taste.

 Herb Enhancements:

  • Stir in fresh basil, thyme, or parsley to the meat sauce.

  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild kick.

 Veggie Add-ins:

  • Layer in spinach, zucchini slices, or mushrooms between ravioli.

  • Sauté veggies first to avoid excess moisture.

 Storage & Reheating:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Freeze individual portions for up to 1 month.

  • Reheat in microwave or oven until piping hot.

 Make It Ahead

Need a quick dinner plan? This recipe is make-ahead friendly.

  • Assemble in the morning, refrigerate, and turn on the slow cooker at lunchtime.

  • For freezer prep: assemble in a freezer-safe container, freeze, and cook directly from frozen (add 1 extra hour to cooking time).

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No need to boil pasta—the ravioli cooks perfectly in the sauce.

  • Minimal prep, maximum comfort food flavor.

  • Family-approved, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable.

  • Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

 Final Thoughts

Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna proves that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to enjoy a warm, cheesy, satisfying lasagna. By using smart shortcuts like frozen ravioli and jarred marinara, you save time without compromising taste. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family, prepping a comforting weeknight meal, or serving at a casual gathering, this recipe delivers every time.

Enjoy the delicious aromas as it simmers in your kitchen, and get ready to scoop up compliments (along with gooey layers of lasagna) at the dinner table.

Leave a Comment