SLOW COOKER RAVIOLI LASAGNA

### Instructions for Making Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna

#### Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat. Add the marinara sauce, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once ready, remove from heat.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and well combined. This mixture will be spread in between the layers of ravioli.

#### Step 3: Layer the Lasagna in the Slow Cooker
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, start layering the ingredients.

1. **First Layer**: Begin by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. **Second Layer**: Add a layer of frozen ravioli over the sauce, arranging them in a single layer (don’t worry if they slightly overlap).
3. **Third Layer**: Spoon and spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture over the ravioli.
4. **Fourth Layer**: Add a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. **Repeat the Layers**: Continue layering in the same order—meat sauce, ravioli, ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese—until all ingredients are used up. Be sure to end with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.

#### Step 4: Cook the Lasagna
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on **low heat for 3-4 hours** or on **high for 1.5-2 hours**. The ravioli should be tender, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.

#### Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once the lasagna is cooked, sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top and let it melt during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. When serving, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

Slice and serve this delightful lasagna with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

### Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna

– **Use frozen ravioli**: Frozen ravioli works best in the slow cooker because it won’t overcook and fall apart like fresh ravioli might. Plus, it’s convenient and saves time.
– **Customize the filling**: You can easily change up the ravioli filling. Use spinach and cheese ravioli for a vegetarian option, or try meat-filled ravioli for a heartier dish.
– **Make it ahead**: You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and cook it the next day. This makes it a great option for meal prep or dinner parties.
– **Add vegetables**: If you’d like to add some extra veggies to your lasagna, try layering in some sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach between the ravioli layers.
– **Make it spicy**: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara sauce for an extra kick.

### Variations of Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna

While the classic ravioli lasagna recipe is delicious, here are some variations you can try:

– **Vegetarian Ravioli Lasagna**: Use cheese or spinach ravioli and add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the layers for a wholesome, vegetarian lasagna.
– **Meat Lover’s Lasagna**: Add sausage or ground turkey to the sauce for extra flavor and protein.
– **Four-Cheese Lasagna**: Include a variety of cheeses such as provolone, gouda, or fontina to the layers of cheese for a richer, more indulgent dish.
– **Pesto Ravioli Lasagna**: Swap the marinara sauce for a pesto sauce for a unique twist on the classic lasagna. The nutty, herby flavors of pesto will pair beautifully with ravioli and cheese.

### How to Serve Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna

Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas to round out your meal:

– **Serve with a side salad**: A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of lasagna.
– **Pair with garlic bread**: A side of warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic accompaniment to any lasagna and is great for soaking up any extra sauce.
– **Add a side of roasted vegetables**: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a healthy, flavorful touch to balance the heaviness of the lasagna.

### Conclusion

Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna is the perfect solution for those who love the flavors of traditional lasagna but want a quicker, more convenient way to make it. With minimal prep time, easy-to-find ingredients, and the convenience of a slow cooker, this dish is ideal for busy families or anyone looking for a comforting, delicious meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Give it a try, and savor the rich, cheesy, and hearty layers of comfort food!