When I need an easy holiday weekend dinner that still feels hearty and crowd-pleasing, this 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Labor Day Beef Ravioli is one of my favorite tricks. It takes frozen beef ravioli and turns it into a cozy, cheesy baked-style pasta dinner right in the crock pot, with almost no fuss. It is the kind of simple recipe that works beautifully when the house is full, the day is busy, and everyone is ready for something warm and satisfying.
This rich ravioli dish goes well with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or simple steamed green beans to balance the cheesy tomato sauce. If you are serving friends for Labor Day, add iced tea, lemonade, or a light red wine, and set out a little extra Parmesan so everyone can finish their bowl just the way they like it.
5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Labor Day Beef Ravioli
Servings: 6
Ingredients
1 bag (25 to 30 ounces) frozen beef ravioli
Directions
1. Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray if desired for easier cleanup. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom, then arrange half of the frozen beef ravioli over the sauce.
2. Spoon half of the diced tomatoes over the ravioli, then add about half of the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle with 1 cup of the mozzarella and a little of the Parmesan.
3. Repeat the layers with the remaining frozen ravioli, diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan, finishing with cheese on top. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the ravioli are tender and heated through and the cheese is melted.
4. Turn off the heat and let the ravioli rest for 10 minutes so the layers can settle a bit. Scoop into bowls and serve hot with extra Parmesan if you like.
Variations & Tips
Make it extra meaty: If your family loves a heartier pasta dinner, add 1/2 pound of cooked crumbled ground beef or Italian sausage between the layers. It makes this feel even more like a special weekend casserole.
Add vegetables: For a little color and balance, stir in a cup of baby spinach or a layer of sliced mushrooms. These tuck in nicely without changing the easy feel of the recipe.
For picky eaters: If someone at your table prefers a smoother sauce, use plain marinara and skip the diced tomatoes. You will still get a rich, cheesy result with an even more classic texture.
Watch the cooking time: Slow cookers can vary quite a bit, so start checking around the 4-hour mark on low. You want the ravioli tender and hot, but not overly soft.
Easy serving tip: This dish holds heat well, which makes it handy for casual gatherings and potluck-style meals. Keep a spoon nearby and let everyone serve themselves with salad and bread on the side.
