Description
Monterey Chicken Ravioli is a comforting baked casserole combining tender cooked chicken, cheese-filled ravioli, creamy Alfredo and ricotta sauce, savory spinach, and crunchy French fried onions. This hearty dish is perfect for a satisfying family meal with its rich flavors and melty Monterey Jack cheese topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chopped chicken
- 1 (25-oz) package frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 (15-oz) jar Alfredo sauce
- 1 (8-oz) container sour cream
- 1 (15-oz) container ricotta cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 (0.7-oz) packet Italian dressing mix
- 1 (10-oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
Cheese & Toppings
- 3 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- 1 (6-oz) can French fried onions, divided
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Prepare the sauce mixture: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sour cream, lightly beaten eggs, Alfredo sauce, and Italian dressing mix. Stir thoroughly to create a creamy, flavorful base for the casserole.
- Add main ingredients: To the creamy mixture, add the cooked chopped chicken, 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, thawed and drained spinach, frozen cheese ravioli, and half of the French fried onions. Stir everything together evenly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread the combined ravioli and chicken mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top, followed by half a can of the French fried onions for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.
Notes
- Make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain the frozen spinach to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- You can substitute frozen cheese ravioli with fresh ravioli if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
- Use cooked chicken leftovers or rotisserie chicken to save preparation time.
- French fried onions add a crispy topping, but can be omitted or substituted with breadcrumbs for a different texture.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just extend the baking time by 5–10 minutes if baking cold.
