Creamy Chicken Alfredo Ravioli Bake
If you are looking for a hearty, comforting, and crowd-pleasing dinner that can be made with minimal effort, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Ravioli Bake. This dish combines the rich, cheesy goodness of classic Alfredo pasta with the convenience of frozen ravioli and the satisfying protein boost of shredded chicken. Best of all, it is made in the slow cooker, so you can set it and forget it until dinnertime.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. There is no need to boil pasta or make a sauce from scratch—everything comes together in layers right in the slow cooker. The result is a creamy, cheesy, bubbling dish that is perfect for feeding a family or entertaining guests. The combination of Alfredo sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a luscious, decadent flavor profile that rivals any restaurant meal.
Ingredients:
- 25-ounce bag of frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 16-ounce jar of Alfredo sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 15-ounce container ricotta cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Slow Cooker – Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray or a drizzle of olive oil. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Layer the Ingredients – Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange half of the frozen cheese ravioli over the sauce. In a bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with a portion of the Alfredo sauce, then spread half of this mixture over the ravioli. Add spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the chicken layer, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Finally, sprinkle half of the Italian seasoning over the cheese layer.
- Repeat the Layers – Layer the remaining ravioli, chicken mixture, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning in the same order, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
- Cook Low and Slow – Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours. The ravioli will cook through, the cheese will melt, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
- Serve and Garnish – Once the bake is hot and bubbly, remove the lid and let it sit for a few minutes to set. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then scoop and serve warm.
Why This Recipe Works:
This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights because it requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. Using frozen ravioli eliminates the need to cook pasta separately, and jarred Alfredo sauce saves time without sacrificing taste. Layering the ingredients ensures that every bite is creamy, cheesy, and satisfying. The slow cooker does all the work, gently cooking the ravioli and allowing the flavors to develop.
Tips and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option – Replace the chicken with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or a combination of roasted vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers.
- Add a Kick – Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the Alfredo sauce for a spicy twist.
- Baked Version – If you do not have a slow cooker, assemble the dish in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Mix Up the Flavors – Try using spinach and cheese ravioli, mushroom ravioli, or even lobster ravioli for a more indulgent variation.
- Make It Extra Creamy – Stir a little cream cheese or heavy cream into the Alfredo sauce before layering for an even richer dish.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Ravioli Bake with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. It also pairs nicely with roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli. For a special occasion, finish the meal with a light dessert like fruit salad or panna cotta.
Make-Ahead and Storage:
You can assemble the layers in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate. The next day, place the insert into the slow cooker base and cook as directed. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Final Thoughts:
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Ravioli Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining the convenience of a slow cooker with the flavors of a homemade Italian-inspired meal. It is creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, making it a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you are cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply craving something warm and comforting, this dish delivers every time.