Crockpot Ravioli Casserole

Enjoy a cozy and delicious meal with this easy Crockpot Ravioli Casserole! This hearty, family-friendly recipe is made with ground beef, tender pasta, flavorful tomato sauce, and plenty of melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this slow cooker casserole combines classic Italian flavors with the convenience of the crockpot, delivering a warm, cheesy pasta bake with minimal prep. This one-pot meal is simple, satisfying, and perfect for pasta lovers looking for an easy, comforting dinner recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs lean ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 can stewed tomatoes
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed
• 16 oz bowtie pasta, cooked
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup water

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef
   In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is cooked through and the onion is softened.
2. Add to Crockpot
   Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the crockpot. Stir in the tomato sauce, stewed tomatoes, water, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Slow Cook
   Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, allowing the flavors to blend.
4. Add Spinach and Pasta
   Thirty minutes before the cooking time is over, add the thawed spinach and cooked bowtie pasta to the crockpot. Stir gently to combine.
5. Add the Cheese
   Just before serving, sprinkle in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Mix lightly and allow the cheese to melt for a few minutes.
6. Serve
   Serve warm and enjoy!

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Tips

• Ground Beef Substitute: For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Cheese Options: Try a blend of mozzarella and provolone for extra cheesy flavor, or add ricotta for a creamy texture.
• Cooking the Pasta: Cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the crockpot.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Add a Kick: For a spicy version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Different Greens: Substitute spinach with kale or chard if desired.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, simply add fresh spinach directly into the crockpot; it will cook down quickly.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! You can use penne, rigatoni, or any other short pasta shape.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and a pop of color.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crockpot Ravioli Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish that requires minimal effort. Perfect for busy days, the slow cooker does all the work, blending rich flavors together for a satisfying meal that’s easy to customize. With tender pasta, savory ground beef, and melted cheese, it’s a dish the whole family will love!