Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 (24-ounce) jars prepared pasta sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 (25-ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped garlic, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the beef. Stir well to combine.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- Pour in the pasta sauce, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and dried oregano into the skillet with the beef. Mix thoroughly and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Assemble the Lasagna in the Crockpot:
- Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.
- Spread a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the crockpot.
- Place a single layer of frozen cheese ravioli over the sauce.
- Sprinkle a portion of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the ravioli.
- Repeat the layers (sauce, ravioli, cheeses) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce and a generous topping of cheeses.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until the ravioli is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, turn off the crockpot and let the lasagna sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Meat Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and add layers of sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Cheese Variations: Mix in other cheeses like provolone or ricotta for added richness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for some heat.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna!
