Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Ravioli Lasagna Recipe

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Are you looking for an easy and delicious dinner idea that your whole family will love? Look no further than Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Ravioli Lasagna! This comforting dish combines the flavors of Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and cheesy ravioli, all beautifully layered together in the convenience of a slow cooker. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. By using a slow cooker, you allow the ingredients to mingle and develop rich flavors all while spending minimal time in the kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons why you should consider making Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Ravioli Lasagna. First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few steps, you’ll have a hearty meal cooking away while you go about your day. The slow cooker does all the work, and you can return to a warm and satisfying dinner. Second, the dish is versatile. You can adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you like it spicy or mild, or even if you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, this recipe can cater to your tastes. Finally, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup afterward! Who doesn’t love a delicious meal that doesn’t require an army of pans and dishes?

How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Ravioli Lasagna

Making Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Ravioli Lasagna is straightforward. Just follow the steps outlined below, and you’ll have a delightful dish ready to serve.

Ingredients

1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on your preference)
1 yellow onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
For a vegetarian option, replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or tofu crumbles.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by cooking the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks. Cook the sausage until it is browned and fully cooked, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped yellow onion and bell peppers. Sauté them over medium heat until they are softened, about 4 to 5 minutes. The colorful bell peppers not only add flavor but also provide a nice visual appeal to the dish. Once the vegetables are tender, remove them from heat.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Now it’s time to assemble everything in the slow cooker. Start by adding a layer of marinara sauce to the bottom of the slow cooker. Next, place half of the frozen cheese ravioli on top of the sauce. Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage over the ravioli, followed by half of the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Repeat this process with another layer of marinara sauce, ravioli, sausage, vegetables, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

Step 4: Add Seasonings and Cook
After layering everything, sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the top. Pour any remaining marinara sauce over the layers to keep everything moist during cooking. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The ravioli should be cooked through, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the lid and let it cool for a few minutes. The Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Ravioli Lasagna is now ready to serve! Use a large spoon to scoop out portions, and enjoy this delightful dish with some crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Ravioli Lasagna

When serving the Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Ravioli Lasagna, you can enhance the experience by offering a few side items. Consider serving garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up any leftover sauce. A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and Italian dressing pairs nicely and adds freshness to the meal. You can garnish each serving with chopped fresh basil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Don’t forget to have some extra marinara sauce on hand for those who like to dip their ravioli!

How to Store Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Ravioli Lasagna

If you have any leftovers, you can store them easily. Allow any remaining lasagna to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave or in an oven until warmed through. If you’d like to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Portion the lasagna into containers and freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it as needed.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Ravioli Lasagna

Use Quality Ingredients: The quality of the ingredients will affect the overall flavor of the dish. If possible, choose high-quality Italian sausage and marinara sauce.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the dish. Just make sure to sauté them first for the best flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Make sure not to overfill the slow cooker. It’s essential to leave some room for the food to cook evenly.
Check for Doneness: Depending on your slow cooker, cooking times may vary a bit. Make sure to check that the ravioli is tender before serving.
Layering is Key: Proper layering ensures even cooking and flavor distribution throughout the dish. Stick to the layering order for the best results.

Variation

If you want to switch things up a bit, there are many variations to this comforting dish. Here are a few ideas:

Change the Protein: Substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. You can also use a mix of different meats for variety.
Make it Vegetarian: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, tofu crumbles, or other plant-based proteins. You can also add more vegetables to enhance the flavor.
Use Different Cheeses: While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like ricotta, cheddar, or provolone.
Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of spice, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh ravioli instead of frozen. Just keep in mind that fresh ravioli will cook faster, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.

2. Can I cook this recipe on high instead of low?
Yes, you can definitely cook this recipe on high. It will take about 2 to 3 hours instead of 4 to 5 hours. Just make sure to check the doneness of the ravioli towards the end of the cooking time.

3. What can I do if I don’t have a slow cooker?
If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can make this dish in a traditional oven. Layer the ingredients in a baking dish and cover it tightly with aluminum foil. Bake it at 375°F for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the ravioli is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.

4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the layers ahead of time and assemble everything in the slow cooker just before cooking. This can save you time in the evening on a busy day.

5. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs nicely with garlic bread, a fresh side salad, or steamed vegetables. You can also indulge in a glass of red wine for a delightful dining experience.

By following this recipe, everyone in your family will ask for seconds! The Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Ravioli Lasagna is not just delicious, but it’s also a great way to gather everyone around the table for a hearty meal. So, dust off your slow cooker and get ready to create a dish that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Enjoy!