Crispy, Golden, and Perfect for Sharing
The first time I made Fried Ravioli, I didn’t expect them to be this addictive. A simple plate of pasta pockets turned into a warm, crunchy appetizer that disappeared faster than I could fry them. Each piece puffs slightly, turning golden and crisp while the filling stays soft and cheesy inside. Whether you call them toasted ravioli or just your new favorite Italian appetizer, these little bites are the best kind of comfort food.
I love making them when I’m hosting because they look fancy but take just minutes. They’re right at home beside easy crowd-pleasers like my Buffalo Chicken Dip Pinwheels or the creamy Smoked Salmon Pinwheels.
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Best Fried Ravioli Italian Appetizers Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20 ravioli pieces (serves 6–8)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy on the outside and cheesy inside, this Fried Ravioli recipe is a classic Italian appetizer that’s quick to make and always a hit. Each bite-sized ravioli is coated in Parmesan breadcrumbs, fried (or air-fried) to golden perfection, and served with warm marinara sauce. Perfect for parties, snacks, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
1 package (about 20 pieces) refrigerated cheese ravioli
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetable oil, for frying
Marinara sauce, for dipping
Optional Toppings
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the coating: In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bread the ravioli: Dip each ravioli in the egg mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs stick well.
- Fry until golden: Heat 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the ravioli in small batches for about 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm: Sprinkle with Parmesan and herbs. Serve right away with a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping.
Air Fryer Option
Lightly spray breaded ravioli with oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, turning once, until crisp and golden.
Notes
For best results, serve immediately after frying.
To reheat, use an oven or air fryer for crispiness. Avoid the microwave.
You can use frozen ravioli; thaw them before frying.
For a vegetarian version, use spinach or mushroom ravioli.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Snack
- Method: Fried or Air-Fried
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Why You’ll Love This Fried Ravioli Recipe
These crunchy pillows are everything you want in a party snack: crispy on the outside, warm and cheesy inside, and ready in under 30 minutes. You can make them in a skillet or turn them into an easy air fryer recipe if you prefer less oil. I often serve them with marinara sauce for dipping but honestly, they’re so good they barely make it to the table.
The texture is what wins everyone over: that satisfying crunch followed by the creamy filling. Think of them as the Italian cousin of my Arancini, just faster to make.
Ingredients
- 1 package (about 20 pieces) refrigerated cheese ravioli
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan for sprinkling
- Crushed red pepper flakes for a kick
How to Make Fried Ravioli
Step 1 – Prepare the breading
In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
Step 2 – Coat the ravioli
Dip each ravioli first into the egg mixture, then into the breadcrumb mix, pressing gently to coat all sides.
Step 3 – Fry until golden
Heat about an inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the ravioli in small batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Step 4 – Serve warm
Arrange on a platter, sprinkle with Parmesan and herbs, and serve immediately with marinara sauce. They’re best eaten hot and crisp.
Air Fryer Option:
Spray the breaded ravioli lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through until crisp.
Variations and Serving Ideas
These fried ravioli fit beautifully on any appetizer spread. Serve them beside salty bites like my Crispy Prosciutto Recipe or add a spicy twist with Prosciutto Parmesan Jalapeño Poppers. For something sweet to balance the meal, my Prosciutto Hawaiian Pizza adds a fun contrast of flavors.
If you want a vegetarian version, try spinach or mushroom ravioli. For a shortcut, use frozen ravioli just thaw before frying or air-frying.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Fried ravioli taste best fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer until warm and crisp again. Avoid the microwave it softens the coating.
They also freeze beautifully once fried. Cool completely, freeze in a single layer, then reheat directly from frozen for 10–12 minutes at 375°F.
Final Thoughts
This fried ravioli recipe turns an ordinary pasta into an irresistible appetizer. Crunchy, cheesy, and quick to make, it’s one of those Italian appetizers that never fail to impress. I often make them for family nights or lazy weekends when I want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
Want more cozy, easy recipes like this? Come hang out with me on Pinterest I share my newest kitchen favorites there every week.
If you try them, I’d love to hear how they turned out. Save this recipe for your next get-together, and visit my Pinterest page where I share cozy favorites like Pastina with Prosciutto and more easy appetizers that bring everyone to the table.
