Fried Ravioli Recipe
If you’ve never tasted the pure joy that comes with biting into a crispy, golden pillow of pasta, let me introduce you to my Fried Ravioli Recipe. This irresistible Italian-American appetizer is everything you could want in a snack: crunchy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, with a hint of Parmesan and the comforting herbal kick of Italian breadcrumbs. Paired with tangy marinara for dipping, it’s no wonder this Fried Ravioli Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—whether you’re hosting game night, feeding a family, or just treating yourself to something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Fried Ravioli Recipe requires simple, everyday ingredients, but each one is essential to getting that perfect savory crunch and melty filling. Let’s go through them – you likely have most in your kitchen already!
- Ravioli: Use a 20-ounce package of refrigerated cheese or meat ravioli; the fresh pasta becomes wonderfully tender inside that crispy crust.
- Italian-style breadcrumbs: Two cups of seasoned breadcrumbs add bold flavor and an irresistible crunch.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: A half cup gives salty, nutty richness to the coating, elevating every bite.
- Eggs: Two large eggs act as the glue, making sure the breading sticks perfectly to each ravioli.
- Milk: Just a quarter cup helps thin the eggs so they’ll coat the pasta evenly.
- Vegetable oil: Enough for frying; choose a neutral oil like canola or sunflower for a clean, crisp finish.
- Salt: Sprinkle to taste—the final savory touch that makes the flavors pop.
- Marinara sauce: For dipping! Use your favorite store-bought or homemade version.
- Chopped parsley (optional): A bit of green freshness sprinkled on top makes these even more inviting.
How to Make Fried Ravioli Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ravioli Briefly
Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil, and gently drop in your ravioli. Let them cook for just 2 to 3 minutes until they’re barely tender—remember, they’ll be finishing in the fryer. Drain well and let them cool slightly on a tray so you can handle them with ease.
Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station
While the ravioli cool, grab two shallow bowls. In one, whisk together the eggs and milk until creamy. In another, mix the Italian breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan. This setup is key for perfectly even breading—the egg helps the breadcrumbs adhere, and the cheese melts into a magical golden crust.
Step 3: Bread the Ravioli
Time to get your hands a little messy (the fun part)! Dip each ravioli first into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, then press it into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Be gentle but firm so you get every surface covered in that flavorful coating.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or saucepan. Set it over medium heat and bring it up to 350°F—if you don’t have a thermometer, you can carefully drop a breadcrumb in; it should sizzle instantly but not burn. This temperature gives you maximum crunch without oily ravioli.
Step 5: Fry the Ravioli
Working in batches, fry the breaded ravioli for 2 or 3 minutes on each side, or until beautifully golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want them to crisp, not steam. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate, and while they’re still hot, sprinkle a little salt over the top.
Step 6: Serve Warm with Marinara
Your Fried Ravioli Recipe is ready to shine! Arrange them on a serving platter with a warm bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Fried Ravioli Recipe
Garnishes
This dish absolutely glows with a final sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a shower of chopped parsley or basil. If you want to step it up, try a pinch of red pepper flakes or a light dusting of lemon zest for a bright Italian twist. Presentation matters and these little touches make your Fried Ravioli Recipe look as good as it tastes!
Side Dishes
The crispy, cheesy nature of fried ravioli makes it ideal alongside simpler sides—think a crisp green salad tossed with tangy vinaigrette, a bowl of roasted vegetables, or even just a medley of cut veggies and extra dipping sauce. If you want something heartier, garlic bread or antipasto platters are always a win.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform this Fried Ravioli Recipe into a showstopping party snack by skewering a few fried ravioli on toothpicks with a basil leaf in between, or pile them high in a basket lined with a red-checked napkin for a festive Italian-American vibe. For family movie night, serve a platter with several dipping sauces—like ranch, pesto, or spicy arrabbiata—for a build-your-own dunking adventure.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover fried ravioli (doubtful, but just in case), let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The crispy texture will soften a little, but they’re still absolutely delicious the next day.
Freezing
The Fried Ravioli Recipe freezes beautifully. Arrange the cooled fried ravioli on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When cravings strike, just reheat straight from frozen!
Reheating
For the crunchiest results, reheat fried ravioli in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5 to 8 minutes until hot and crisp. The microwave will do in a pinch, but it’ll soften them. For best taste and texture, go with the oven or air fryer method.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ravioli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! You can swap in frozen cheese or meat ravioli for this Fried Ravioli Recipe. Just boil them as directed straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or so to the cook time, then proceed with breading and frying as usual.
What oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil all work perfectly, since they have a high smoke point and don’t overpower the delicate flavor of the breadcrumbs and cheese. Avoid olive oil for deep frying, as it can burn at higher temps.
Can I bake instead of fry for a lighter version?
Yes! To make a lighter Fried Ravioli Recipe, arrange breaded ravioli on a greased baking sheet, spray or brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp and golden.
How do I keep the breading from falling off?
For best results, make sure to pat the boiled ravioli dry before breading, and press the breadcrumbs onto each piece firmly. It also helps to let the breaded ravioli sit for a few minutes before frying, which helps the coating adhere.
What are the best dipping sauces?
Classic marinara is always a hit, but you can serve fried ravioli with ranch, creamy garlic sauce, pesto, or even a spicy jalapeño aioli for a fun twist. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your dips!
Final Thoughts
Once you taste just how fun and delicious this Fried Ravioli Recipe turns out, you’ll want to make it every chance you get. It’s simple, super adaptable, and guaranteed to make anyone at your table smile. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite appetizer or snack!
Print
Fried Ravioli Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy these delicious Fried Ravioli as a crispy appetizer or party snack. Cheese or meat ravioli is breaded and fried to golden perfection, perfect for dipping in marinara sauce.
Ingredients
Ravioli:
- 1 (20-ounce) package refrigerated cheese or meat ravioli
Breadcrumb Mixture:
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk
Others:
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt to taste
- Marinara sauce for dipping
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Ravioli: Boil ravioli in salted water for 2–3 minutes. Drain and cool slightly.
- Prepare Coating: Whisk eggs and milk in a bowl. Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan in another bowl.
- Bread and Fry: Dip ravioli in egg wash, coat with breadcrumbs, and fry in hot oil until golden brown.
- Serve: Drain on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and serve warm with marinara sauce.
Notes
- Try different fillings like spinach and ricotta or sausage for variety.
- For a lighter option, bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5–6 pieces
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
