4 Ingredient Crockpot Ravioli
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
3 hrs
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Total Time
3 hrs 20 mins
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Servings
8 servings
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Calories
697 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
4 Ingredient Crockpot Ravioli
Description
4 Ingredient Crockpot Ravioli begins with browning Italian sausage, which is then combined with pasta sauce to create a savory meat sauce base. The crockpot is sprayed with cooking spray, and a layer of reserved sauce is placed at the bottom to prevent sticking. Layers of uncooked cheese and spinach filled ravioli alternate with the meat sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese, culminating with a final cheese topping. Cooking on low heat for 3 to 4 hours gently cooks the ravioli and allows all flavors to blend.
The dish results in tender ravioli enveloped in a rich, savory sauce flecked with seasoned sausage and melted mozzarella. The slow cooker method requires minimal active work and produces a comforting casserole-style meal. Ingredients can be varied, such as using mild or hot sausage, and frozen ravioli of any variety can be substituted without needing pre-thawing. Adding vegetables or spices during the sausage cooking step can customize the dish’s flavor and nutritional profile.
This recipe works well as a main course for family dinners or casual gatherings. It pairs with light salads or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Garnishing with fresh parsley or basil adds freshness and color. The layered cooking also keeps the meal warm and allows for easy serving straight from the crockpot.
Adjust seasoning and check the pasta doneness at around 3 hours to avoid overcooking. Optional ingredients like chili flakes can add heat, and various ravioli fillings offer flexibility.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage mild or hot
- 45 ounces pasta sauce
- 4 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 25-30 ounces ravioli uncooked, cheese and spinach filled
Instructions
- Spray the inside of a 6 qt slow cooker with cooking spray. Reserve 1 cup of pasta sauce and set aside.
- Brown sausage over medium heat until no pink remains. Drain any fat. Add reamining pasta sauce sauce and simmer 2 minutes.
- Place reserved 1 cup of pasta sauce in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Top with 1/2 of the ravioli, half of the meat sauce and half of the cheese.
- Repeat layers ending with cheese.
- Cover and cook on low 3-4 hours.
Notes
- Feel free to add onions, garlic, or vegetables like mushrooms or peppers when browning the sausage for extra flavor.
- Use any frozen ravioli variety; skip sausage if using meat-filled ravioli for a quicker version.
- Adding 1-2 teaspoons of chili flakes can provide a spicy kick to the sauce.
- Check pasta doneness at 3 hours to prevent overcooking, as slow cookers vary.
- A simple garnish of fresh parsley or basil enhances the finished dish's appearance and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 697 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 697 | 35% |
| Carbohydrates | 47g | 16% |
| Protein | 36g | 72% |
| Fat | 41g | 63% |
| Saturated Fat | 17g | 85% |
| Cholesterol | 135mg | 45% |
| Sodium | 2148mg | 90% |
| Potassium | 714mg | 15% |
| Fiber | 5g | 20% |
| Sugar | 9g | 18% |
| Vitamin A | 1069IU | 21% |
| Vitamin C | 12mg | 13% |
| Calcium | 331mg | 33% |
| Iron | 12mg | 67% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.