Ultimate Make-Ahead Sausage Ravioli Casserole

Do-Ahead Sausage Ravioli Casserole

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (plus 8 hours refrigeration)

Description

This delectable Do-Ahead Sausage Ravioli Casserole, adapted from a cherished Betty Crocker softcover #190 recipe, is a superb dish for entertaining. With its rich layers of sausage, ravioli, and cheesy goodness, it makes for a hearty and satisfying meal. The best part? It requires an 8-hour refrigeration period, allowing you ample time to focus on other preparations before your guests arrive. Perfect for a relaxed dinner gathering, this casserole offers a delightful combination of flavors and ease of preparation.

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 pounds bulk Italian sausage 🌭
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
• 2 1/2 cups pasta sauce 🍝
• 1 package (about 20 ounces) frozen cheese ravioli (or fresh if preferred) 🥟

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage
   Begin by heating a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the bulk Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is thoroughly browned and no longer pink. This step ensures that the sausage will be nicely crumbled throughout the casserole, providing a flavorful meat layer.

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2. Drain the Grease
   Once the sausage is cooked, carefully drain off the excess grease. This step is crucial to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy and to ensure a more balanced flavor in the final dish.

3. Prepare the Baking Pan
   Spread 1/2 cup of pasta sauce evenly across the bottom of an ungreased 13x9x2-inch baking pan. This initial layer of sauce will help to keep the ravioli from sticking and infuses the dish with moisture and flavor.

4. Assemble the First Layer
   Arrange a single layer of ravioli over the sauce in the baking pan. Make sure the ravioli is evenly distributed for consistent layering throughout the casserole.

5. Add the Sauce and Sausage
   Pour an additional 1 cup of pasta sauce evenly over the layer of ravioli. Next, sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of the cooked sausage over this layer. Follow with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring an even distribution for optimal melting and flavor.

6. Repeat the Layers
   Repeat the layering process by arranging another layer of ravioli over the sausage, followed by 1 cup of pasta sauce, the remaining sausage, and the remaining mozzarella cheese. This layering technique creates a well-balanced casserole with each bite featuring a blend of ravioli, sausage, and cheese.

7. Refrigerate
   Cover the baking pan tightly with aluminum foil. Refrigerate the assembled casserole for at least 8 hours, but no longer than 24 hours. This refrigeration period allows the flavors to meld and ensures a more cohesive texture in the finished casserole.

8. Bake the Casserole
   When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. The covered baking ensures the casserole cooks evenly and the flavors develop well.

9. Add the Final Cheese Layer
   After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil from the baking pan. Sprinkle the remaining 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

10. Cool and Serve
    Once the cheese is melted and slightly golden, remove the casserole from the oven. Allow it to stand for 10 minutes before cutting and serving. This resting period helps the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve neat portions.

Notes

• Cheese Variations: For added flavor, consider using a blend of different cheeses such as cheddar or provolone in place of some of the mozzarella.
• Make-Ahead Tip: This casserole is perfect for preparing in advance. You can assemble it the night before and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve this hearty casserole with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Enjoy this savory, comforting casserole that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage and ravioli with a gooey cheese topping. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family and guests, making any gathering a special occasion.