Fried Ravioli

Fried Ravioli is a crispy, golden appetizer that combines the deliciousness of pasta with the crunch of deep-fried breading. Originally popularized in St. Louis, this Italian-American treat has gained widespread appeal as a fun, snackable dish that’s perfect for parties, game days, or family dinners. The crispy exterior encases a creamy, cheesy filling or a savory meat blend, creating a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. Paired with marinara or a creamy dipping sauce, fried ravioli is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish at home, complete with tips, variations, and serving suggestions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful: The crunchy, golden breading contrasts perfectly with the soft, flavorful filling.
• Versatile: Use cheese-stuffed, meat-stuffed, or even veggie-stuffed ravioli to suit your taste.
• Fun to Eat: Fried ravioli is finger food at its finest, perfect for dipping and sharing.
• Great for Entertaining: A hit at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for any home cook.
• Customizable: Adapt the breading and dipping sauces to suit your preferences.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Serving Size: 6-8 ravioli pieces

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Fried Ravioli:

• 1 package (12 oz) fresh or frozen ravioli (cheese or meat-filled)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (or plain breadcrumbs with 1 tsp Italian seasoning)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Fresh basil, chopped (optional garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ravioli:

1. Thaw and Dry: If using frozen ravioli, thaw according to the package instructions and pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Set Up the Breading Station:

2. Prepare Three Bowls:
   • Bowl 1: Place the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.
   • Bowl 2: Whisk the eggs and milk together until smooth.
   • Bowl 3: Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Coat the Ravioli:
   • Dredge each ravioli in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Shake off excess flour.
   • Dip the ravioli into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off.
   • Press the ravioli into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides thoroughly. Set aside on a plate.

Fry the Ravioli:

4. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
5. Fry in Batches: Carefully lower a few ravioli into the hot oil, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain: Remove the fried ravioli with a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce:

7. Warm the Marinara: Heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if desired.

Serve:

8. Plate the Ravioli: Arrange the fried ravioli on a serving platter. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
9. Dip and Enjoy: Serve immediately with the warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Ingredient Background

• Ravioli: Cheese-filled ravioli is classic, but meat, spinach, or mushroom varieties work wonderfully. Fresh ravioli is best, but frozen can be used for convenience.
• Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs add a pre-seasoned flavor, while plain breadcrumbs can be customized with your favorite spices.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the breading that complements the ravioli filling.
• Vegetable Oil: A neutral oil like canola or sunflower ensures a clean, crispy fry.

Technique Tips

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
• Check Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F. Too low, and the ravioli will absorb oil; too high, and they’ll burn.
• Double Coat for Extra Crispiness: For an even crunchier coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
• Keep Warm: Place fried ravioli on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven to keep them warm while you finish frying.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Topped with Cheese: Sprinkle fried ravioli with shredded mozzarella and broil for a melty finish.
• Ravioli Nachos: Layer fried ravioli on a platter, top with marinara, cheese, and basil, then broil until bubbly.
• Charcuterie-Style Board: Serve fried ravioli alongside olives, roasted red peppers, and various dipping sauces for a party platter.

Additional Tips for Success

• Dry Ravioli Thoroughly: Ensure ravioli is dry before breading to help the coating stick better.
• Use Fresh Oil: Fresh oil ensures a clean taste and proper frying.
• Serve Immediately: Fried ravioli is best enjoyed hot and crispy.

Recipe Variations

• Pesto Dipping Sauce: Replace marinara with a creamy basil pesto for a unique twist.
• Spicy Ravioli: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick.
• Baked Ravioli: For a lighter version, bake breaded ravioli at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for those with dietary restrictions.

Freezing and Storage

Storage:

• Refrigerate: Store leftover fried ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 3-5 minutes for the best texture.

Freezing:

• Uncooked Ravioli: Bread the ravioli and freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Baked Ravioli: Skip the frying and bake breaded ravioli for a healthier, lower-fat option.
• Whole-Wheat Breadcrumbs: Substitute whole-wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber.
• Air Fryer: Use an air fryer for a crispy texture without the added oil.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Game Day Appetizers: Pair with marinara and ranch dressing for a shareable party snack.
• Dinner Starter: Serve as an appetizer with a fresh green salad and a glass of wine.
• Kids’ Party: Offer fried ravioli with a variety of dipping sauces like ketchup, marinara, or cheesy queso.

Special Equipment

• Deep Fry Thermometer: Ensures oil stays at the optimal frying temperature.
• Slotted Spoon: Ideal for safely removing ravioli from the hot oil.
• Wire Rack: Use for draining fried ravioli to keep them crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen ravioli?
Yes, just thaw them before breading to ensure the coating adheres properly.

2. What oil is best for frying?
Vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil are excellent choices due to their high smoke points and neutral flavor.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Bread the ravioli ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to fry.

4. How can I make these in an air fryer?
Bread the ravioli as usual and air fry at 375°F for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. What’s the best way to reheat fried ravioli?
Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

6. Can I use homemade ravioli?
Absolutely! Homemade ravioli works beautifully and adds a personal touch to the dish.

7. How do I make these dairy-free?
Omit the Parmesan cheese and use a plant-based milk alternative for the egg wash.

8. What dipping sauces work best?
Marinara is classic, but Alfredo, pesto, or a creamy garlic sauce also pair wonderfully.

Conclusion

Fried Ravioli is a show-stopping appetizer that combines the best of Italian comfort food with a fun, crispy twist. Whether served as a party snack, a family-friendly treat, or a creative side dish, these golden, crunchy bites are sure to impress. With endless customization options and easy preparation, Fried Ravioli is a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to time and time again. Gather your ingredients, heat up your oil, and enjoy this irresistible snack today!

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