Imagine a hearty, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, leaving you with more time to enjoy life’s moments. Our Cheesy Slow Cooker Chicken and Ravioli Casserole is precisely that – an unbelievably easy recipe packed with rich flavors, creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and delightful ravioli. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dinner solution, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something truly satisfying without the fuss.
Effortless Cheesy Slow Cooker Chicken and Ravioli Casserole: Your New Go-To Family Dinner
Are you searching for an easy weeknight meal that the whole family will adore? Look no further! This Cheesy Slow Cooker Chicken and Ravioli Casserole recipe combines the convenience of your crock pot with the irresistible flavors of chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and tender ravioli, all topped with gooey cheese. It’s a complete meal in one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing deliciousness. This dish is designed to bring comfort to your table with minimal effort, making it an instant classic in your recipe rotation.
The beauty of this slow cooker meal lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor it achieves. By letting the ingredients meld together over hours, the chicken becomes incredibly tender, soaking up the rich Alfredo sauce. When the ravioli is added in the final stages, it cooks to perfection, creating a thick, creamy casserole that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe guarantees a delicious outcome every time.
Why This Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole Will Become Your Family’s Favorite
There are countless reasons why this Cheesy Slow Cooker Chicken and Ravioli Casserole stands out. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a solution to the perennial question of “what’s for dinner?”
- Unbeatable Convenience: The slow cooker does most of the work. With just a few minutes of prep in the morning, you can come home to a warm, ready-to-eat dinner. It’s truly a hands-off cooking experience.
- Irresistible Flavor Profile: The combination of succulent chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, delicate ravioli, and the hint of garlic creates a harmonious blend of flavors that appeals to almost everyone. The optional spinach in the ravioli adds a subtle freshness without overpowering the dish.
- A True Comfort Food: This casserole offers a comforting embrace in every bite. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly evening or to soothe the soul after a long day. The creamy texture and cheesy topping make it incredibly satisfying.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with common, affordable ingredients, this recipe offers a delicious meal without breaking the bank. It’s an economical way to feed a crowd or ensure you have leftovers for lunch the next day.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike rave about this dish. It’s mild enough for sensitive palates yet flavorful enough to satisfy discerning tastes. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables if you choose spinach ravioli or add extra greens.
- Incredibly Versatile: Don’t have spinach ravioli? No problem! This recipe is highly adaptable. You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand, making it a flexible option for any meal plan.
From the moment you gather your ingredients to the first delightful spoonful, you’ll appreciate the simplicity and savory goodness of this slow cooker masterpiece.
Key Ingredients for Your Cheesy Chicken Ravioli Casserole
Crafting this incredible slow cooker casserole begins with a few simple, yet essential, ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so special.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: We recommend using about 1.5 pounds. These cook down to be incredibly tender and easily shreddable, absorbing the flavors of the sauce beautifully. You can use fresh or frozen chicken breasts; cooking times will be adjusted slightly for frozen.
- Creamy Alfredo Sauce: A jar of your favorite Alfredo sauce is the secret to the rich, decadent base of this casserole. Choose a high-quality brand for the best results, or even make your own if you’re feeling ambitious.
- Minced Garlic: Garlic adds a pungent, aromatic kick that elevates the entire dish. Freshly minced garlic is always preferable, but pre-minced jarred garlic works wonderfully for convenience.
- Black Pepper: A simple seasoning, black pepper provides a subtle warmth and balances the richness of the Alfredo sauce. Feel free to adjust the amount to your taste.
- Refrigerated Cheese Ravioli: The star of the show! While spinach and cheese ravioli is a fantastic choice for added flavor and a touch of green, any refrigerated cheese ravioli or tortellini will work. Avoid frozen ravioli for this recipe as it may result in a different texture.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh Black Pepper and Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh black pepper and vibrant chopped parsley not only adds visual appeal but also a fresh burst of flavor right before serving.
- Optional: Whole Milk (for desired sauce consistency): Sometimes, the sauce can thicken more than desired, especially if you cook it longer. A splash of whole milk can thin it out to your preferred consistency without compromising flavor.
- Optional: Shredded Mozzarella or Italian Blend Cheese: For an extra layer of cheesy goodness, a cup of shredded mozzarella or an Italian cheese blend sprinkled over the top during the last few minutes of cooking creates a bubbly, golden crust.
Having these ingredients ready will set you up for slow cooker success, transforming them into a memorable meal.
How to Make the Best Slow Cooker Chicken and Ravioli Casserole
Creating this delicious casserole is remarkably straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect, cheesy, and tender meal every time.
Cheesy Slow Cooker Chicken and Spinach Ravioli Casserole
An incredibly easy and delicious one-pot meal, perfect for busy weeknights and a guaranteed family favorite.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (on high)
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes – 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: Approximately 338 kcal per serving
Author: Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (15 oz) jar Alfredo sauce
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups refrigerated cheese ravioli (spinach & cheese recommended)
- For Garnish: Fresh black pepper, chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: Whole milk (if needed for sauce consistency)
- Optional: 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the frozen or fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour 2½ cups of Alfredo sauce over the chicken.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on high for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shreddable with a fork.
- Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker with the sauce.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the remaining ½ cup of Alfredo sauce, minced garlic, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Add the refrigerated ravioli to the slow cooker. Gently mix to combine, ensuring the ravioli is well coated in the sauce.
- Cook Ravioli: Cover the slow cooker again and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the ravioli is tender and heated through. It’s crucial not to overcook the ravioli, as it can become mushy.
- Adjust Consistency (Optional): If the sauce seems too thick for your preference, stir in a small amount of whole milk, a tablespoon at a time, until your desired consistency is reached.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh black pepper and a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. For an extra cheesy touch, you can sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella or an Italian cheese blend over the top during the last 5 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt and become bubbly.
Recipe Notes
The estimated calorie count provided does not include any optional whole milk or additional cheese added. For optimal results and convenience, we highly recommend using a slow cooker equipped with a programmable timer that automatically switches to a “warm” setting after the cooking cycle is complete. This feature ensures your meal is perfectly cooked and ready when you are.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Cheesy Slow Cooker Chicken and Spinach Ravioli Casserole
Amount Per Serving
Calories 338 Calories from Fat 144
% Daily Value*
Fat 16g 25%
Saturated Fat 6g 38%
Cholesterol 114mg 38%
Sodium 735mg 32%
Potassium 314mg 9%
Carbohydrates 19g 6%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 1g 1%
Protein 26g 52%
Vitamin A 25IU 1%
Vitamin C 1.2mg 1%
Calcium 13mg 1%
Iron 4.7mg 26%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Customizing Your Slow Cooker Ravioli Casserole: Endless Variations
One of the best aspects of this Cheesy Slow Cooker Chicken and Ravioli Casserole is its incredible adaptability. Feel free to get creative and tailor it to your family’s preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary exploration:
- Different Ravioli Types: While cheese or spinach and cheese ravioli are classic choices, don’t hesitate to experiment with other flavors. Mushroom ravioli can add an earthy depth, meat ravioli will make it even heartier, or try kale and ricotta for an extra boost of greens. You can also use tortellini for a different texture.
- Alternative Proteins: If chicken isn’t what you’re craving, consider swapping it out. Browned Italian sausage, ground beef, or even turkey can be used. Cook and drain any ground meat before adding it to the slow cooker to remove excess fat. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and perhaps add more vegetables or a plant-based protein alternative.
- Varying Sauces: While Alfredo sauce provides a rich, creamy base, you could try a rosé sauce (a mix of Alfredo and marinara), a pesto Alfredo, or even a creamy tomato sauce. The key is to ensure it’s a sauce that holds up well to slow cooking.
- Adding More Vegetables: This casserole is an excellent canvas for sneaking in extra veggies. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even a handful of frozen peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Fresh spinach (beyond what might be in the ravioli) can also be stirred in at the end until wilted.
- Extra Cheese Please! Beyond the optional mozzarella mentioned in the recipe, consider a blend of cheeses. Parmesan, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar can be sprinkled on top for a different cheesy dimension. A dollop of cream cheese stirred in with the sauce can also make it extra creamy.
- Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added with the garlic can provide a welcome zing.
With these variations, you can enjoy this slow cooker chicken and ravioli casserole countless times without ever getting bored!
Essential Tips for Slow Cooker Success
To ensure your Cheesy Slow Cooker Chicken and Ravioli Casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Choosing the Right Slow Cooker: We highly recommend using a crock pot that features a digital timer and an automatic warm setting. This functionality is a game-changer, as it ensures your meal cooks perfectly and then keeps it warm without overcooking, giving you peace of mind and flexibility in your schedule.
- Don’t Overcook the Ravioli: The key to tender, not mushy, ravioli is to add it towards the end of the cooking process. Refrigerated ravioli cooks relatively quickly, usually within 15-20 minutes in a hot slow cooker. Keep an eye on it to ensure it remains al dente.
- Adjusting Sauce Thickness: Slow cooker recipes can sometimes result in varying sauce consistencies due to differences in moisture content from ingredients or crock pot models. If your sauce is too thick, simply stir in a tablespoon or two of whole milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can try mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the hot sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking until thickened.
- Chicken Prep: For even cooking and easier shredding, you can cut larger chicken breasts into smaller, more uniform pieces before adding them to the slow cooker. Freezing chicken first often helps prevent it from drying out during long cook times.
- Meal Prep and Storage: This casserole makes fantastic leftovers! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or gently warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened.
By following these tips, you’ll master this recipe and enjoy a consistently delicious meal.
Perfect Pairings for Your Ravioli Casserole
To complete your meal, consider pairing this rich Cheesy Slow Cooker Chicken and Ravioli Casserole with some simple, fresh sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette will cut through the richness of the Alfredo sauce. Warm, crusty garlic bread or breadsticks are perfect for soaking up every last bit of the delicious sauce. Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a medley of roasted vegetables would also make excellent companions, adding both color and nutrients to your plate.
Explore More Delicious Crock Pot Dinner Recipes
If you love the ease and deliciousness of this slow cooker casserole, you’re in for a treat! We have a wide array of crock pot dinner recipes that are perfect for any occasion. Don’t miss out on these other family favorites:
- Crock Pot Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole
- Crock Pot Lasagna
- Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
- Crock Pot Chicken Ramen
- Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo Stew
Be sure to browse our entire collection of slow cooker chicken recipes for more convenient and flavorful meal ideas!
Beyond slow cooker meals, discover a world of culinary delights on our site! Explore our popular copycat recipes, indulge in our irresistible dessert recipes, and dive deeper into our extensive category of Crock Pot Recipes for every taste and occasion.
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Recipe originally shared on March 30, 2017. Updated November 2020 and further optimized for SEO and readability in 2024.