Fried ravioli are little pockets of joy! Crispy on the outside and filled with cheesy goodness, these bites are perfect for snacking or serving at parties.
Just imagine dipping them in your favorite sauce—yum! I can never stop at just one. They’re quick to make and always bring smiles to the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ravioli: Cheese ravioli is perfect for this dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, try filling them with spinach or mushrooms! If you can’t find fresh or frozen ravioli, make your own dough and filling for a from-scratch option.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs give a nice flavor and crunch. For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. I sometimes add a bit of paprika to regular breadcrumbs for an extra kick!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan has the best taste, but you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. If you’re vegan, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the breadcrumbs to the ravioli. If you’re egg-free, use a mixture of flaxseed meal and water or vegan mayonnaise as a substitute.
How Can I Get My Ravioli Extra Crispy?
For that perfect crispy texture, focus on how you coat the ravioli. Here’s the trick:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; test it with a breadcrumb!
- Double-coat the ravioli by dipping them in egg and breadcrumbs twice. This creates a thicker crust!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches, giving them room to cook evenly.
The result will be a deliciously crispy outside and gooey inside. Happy frying!
How to Make Fried Ravioli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 fresh or frozen cheese ravioli (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme mix)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, plus about 10-15 minutes for frying. You’ll have crispy, delicious fried ravioli ready in around 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dredging Stations:
In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined. In another shallow bowl, pour the flour. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. These stations will make the breading process a breeze!
2. Bread the Ravioli:
If you’re using frozen ravioli, pat them dry with a paper towel. Start by dredging each ravioli in the flour, shaking off any extra. Next, dip them in the beaten eggs, and finally coat them well in the breadcrumb mixture. For a super crispy texture, feel free to repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps!
3. Heat the Oil:
Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep skillet or saucepan to measure about 1-2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). As a quick test, drop in a breadcrumb—if it sizzles and turns brown in about 30 seconds, the oil is ready!
4. Fry the Ravioli:
Carefully place the breaded ravioli in the hot oil without crowding the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to flip them if needed!
5. Drain:
Once golden brown, remove the fried ravioli and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. This keeps them crispy and not greasy!
6. Serve:
Slide the crispy fried ravioli onto a serving platter. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and a bit more grated Parmesan on top for a lovely finishing touch. Serve them warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Frozen Ravioli for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to pat them dry with paper towels before breading. There’s no need to thaw them first; they can go straight from the freezer to the frying pan!
How Can I Make Fried Ravioli Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the breaded ravioli in advance and store them in the fridge for a few hours before frying. Alternatively, you can fry them, let them cool, and then store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a hot oven for crispiness!
What Type of Oil Should I Use for Frying?
Vegetable oil is a great choice because it has a high smoke point. You could also use canola or peanut oil. Just avoid olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point that may not yield the best frying results.
Can I Substitute the Cheese Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different fillings like spinach and ricotta, mushroom, or even a meat filling. Just ensure the filling is fully cooked before breading and frying.
