Introduction

This is the easiest 4-ingredient Crock Pot lasagna you will ever make. Using frozen cheese ravioli as a shortcut, this hearty, comforting dish layers up effortlessly in your slow cooker for a hands-off family dinner. For another simple slow cooker favorite, try this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe.

Ingredients

This easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna comes together with just four simple ingredients, creating layers of savory meat sauce, tender pasta, and perfectly melted cheese.

• 1 lb ground hamburger (or ground Italian sausage)
• 2 regular size jars of pasta sauce (about 24 oz each)
• 4 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 25-30 oz frozen cheese ravioli (do not thaw)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	4 hours
Total Time	4 hours 15 minutes

Context: This Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is about 20% faster than similar recipes, as the slow cooker does the work while you prep the simple layers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather one pound of ground beef or Italian sausage, a 24-ounce jar of your favorite marinara sauce, a 25-ounce package of frozen cheese ravioli, and two cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Having everything measured and ready makes assembling this Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna a seamless process.

Step 2 — Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until it is fully browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess grease thoroughly. This step builds a flavorful foundation for your slow cooker lasagna.

Step 3 — Assemble the First Layer

Spread about half a cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of your slow cooker to prevent sticking. Arrange a single layer of frozen ravioli over the sauce, followed by half of the cooked meat and another generous cup of sauce.

Step 4 — Add Cheese and Repeat

Sprinkle one cup of shredded mozzarella over the meat and sauce. Then, repeat the layering process: another layer of ravioli, the remaining meat, and another cup of sauce. Finish with the final layer of ravioli.

Step 5 — Top and Cook

Pour the remaining sauce over the top layer of ravioli, ensuring they are fully covered to prevent drying out. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours. The ravioli should be tender and heated through.

Step 6 — Add Final Cheese

About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Replace the lid and let it cook until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.

Step 7 — Rest and Serve

Turn off the slow cooker and let the Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to scoop out neat portions. Serve warm with a side salad and garlic bread.

Nutritional Information

Calories	Approx. 420
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	48g
Fat	16g
Fiber	4g
Sodium	980mg

Note: Nutritional values for this Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna are estimates based on typical ingredients and a standard serving size. Actual values can vary depending on specific brands and preparation.

Healthier Alternatives

This easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some simple swaps to tailor it to your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

• Leaner Protein — Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish with a similar savory profile.
• Lower-Carb Option — Use zucchini ribbons or thinly sliced eggplant in place of some ravioli layers for a veggie-forward, lower-carb version.
• Dairy-Free — Opt for a plant-based cheese alternative and a dairy-free ravioli to make this Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna completely dairy-free.
• Gluten-Free — Choose a certified gluten-free frozen ravioli to easily make this a gluten-free Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna.
• Low-Sodium — Use no-salt-added canned tomatoes and a low-sodium marinara sauce to better control the salt content.
• Extra Veggies — Stir a bag of fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms into the sauce for an added nutrient and flavor boost.
• Ricotta Swap — Substitute full-fat ricotta with part-skim or a blend of cottage cheese for a lighter, protein-rich layer.
• Herb Infusion — Add fresh basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bright, fresh flavor without extra calories.

Serving Suggestions

This easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is a complete meal in itself, but a few thoughtful pairings can turn it into a memorable dinner. Here are some ideas to complement its rich, cheesy flavors.

Perfect Pairings

• Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: Essential for soaking up every bit of the savory sauce.
• A Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini for a healthy, colorful side.
• Sautéed Spinach or Kale: A quick, garlicky green adds nutrients and brightness.

Ideal Occasions

This set-it-and-forget-it dish is incredibly versatile for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.

• Weeknight Family Dinner: The ultimate comfort food that everyone loves.
• Game Day or Potluck: Keep it warm in the slow cooker for easy serving.
• Busy Holidays: Frees up your oven for other dishes like a holiday ham or roast.
• Meal Prep: Makes excellent leftovers that reheat beautifully for lunches.

Plating & Presentation Tips

A few simple touches make your Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna look as good as it tastes.

• Use a large spoon or spatula to scoop out full, defined layers.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or red pepper flakes.
• Serve in shallow bowls to contain the sauce and keep the presentation neat.
• For individual servings, consider baking ramekins of leftovers topped with extra cheese for a crispy finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Dumping in frozen ravioli without thawing. Fix: Thaw it first or add 30+ minutes to your cook time to prevent a cold, undercooked center.
• Mistake: Using a watery jarred sauce straight from the bottle. Fix: Simmer it briefly to thicken, ensuring your Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna doesn’t turn out soupy.
• Mistake: Overfilling the slow cooker past ¾ full. Fix: Use a 6-quart or larger model to allow proper heat circulation and prevent spillover.
• Mistake: Cooking on HIGH the entire time. Fix: Opt for LOW for 3-4 hours to gently melt cheese and cook pasta without scorching the edges.
• Mistake: Skipping the non-stick spray or oil. Fix: Always grease the insert to prevent frustrating, stuck-on cleanup after your meal.
• Mistake: Adding delicate fresh herbs at the start. Fix: Stir in basil or parsley in the last 10 minutes to preserve their bright flavor and color.
• Mistake: Not letting it rest before serving. Fix: Unplug and let it sit for 15-20 minutes; this allows the layers to set for cleaner slices.
• Mistake: Using only cheese ravioli for the filling. Fix: Mix in a layer of meat or spinach ravioli for more complex flavor and texture.
• Mistake: Forgetting to season between layers. Fix: A pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder on each sauce layer builds depth throughout the dish.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna completely, then store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Portion the lasagna into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat portions in the microwave, covered, until steaming hot, or in a 350°F oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Always ensure leftovers reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F when reheating to maintain food safety. For the creamiest texture, enjoy your Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna within the first couple of days.

Conclusion

This easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort. If you loved this simple dump-and-go method, you might also enjoy our Cottage Cheese Mushroom Spinach Lasagna Recipe. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!

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FAQs

Can I use frozen ravioli for Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna?

Yes, frozen ravioli works perfectly and is often recommended for this recipe. Using frozen ravioli directly from the bag prevents them from becoming too mushy during the long, slow cooking process. This method is key to achieving the ideal texture in your Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna.

How long do I cook Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna on low versus high?

For the best results, cook your Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna on low for 4 to 5 hours. Cooking on high is not generally recommended, as it can cause the edges to overcook while the center remains underdone. The slow, gentle heat allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

Can I prepare this lasagna ahead of time?

You can assemble the Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna in the slow cooker insert up to a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate, then cook it straight from the fridge, adding about 30 extra minutes to the cooking time. This make-ahead convenience is a major benefit of this easy recipe.