Fried Ravioli Recipe

Fried Ravioli is an irresistible twist on classic pasta that’s just about impossible to stop eating. Crispy on the outside, pillowy and cheesy on the inside, these little golden bites are absolutely perfect for busy weeknights or for serving as a party appetizer. The best part? You can have a platter of these crunchy delights on the table in just 30 minutes, start to finish. Every bite bursts with savory Italian flavors, and the combination of melty cheese encased in a crunchy, parmesan-packed shell is honestly unbeatable—get ready for some serious crowd-pleasing!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of pantry staples, and every ingredient has its job:

• Frozen Cheese Ravioli: The star of the show! Thawing before frying creates the perfect tender interior.
• Vegetable Oil: For deep frying. Use a neutral, high-heat oil for best results and safest frying.
• All Purpose Flour: A crucial first layer that helps the coating stick.
• Kosher Salt & Fresh Cracked Black Pepper: Simple seasonings to boost the ravioli’s flavor.
• Eggs: Binds the coating to each ravioli and gives the final crunch.
• Whole Milk: Loosens up the egg wash for even coating.
• Italian Bread Crumbs & Panko Bread Crumbs: The dynamic duo. Italian breadcrumbs bring herbs and flavor, while panko offers craveable crunch.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty complexity; half for the coating, the rest for garnish.
• Fresh Chopped Parsley: Optional, for a burst of color and freshness at the end.

Tip: Grate the parmesan yourself if possible—pre-grated doesn’t melt the same!

Variations

• Switch up the Filling: Try meat, spinach, or mushroom ravioli.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ravioli and breadcrumbs.
• Add Spice: Toss a pinch of crushed red pepper or a little smoked paprika into the breadcrumb mixture.
• Vegan Option: Go for plant-based ravioli, dairy-free milk, and vegan parmesan substitutes.
• Custom Coatings: Swap out some of the parmesan for pecorino, or add dried basil/oregano.

How to Make Fried Ravioli

Step 1: Prep the Ravioli

Make sure your frozen cheese ravioli are thawed—either let them rest overnight in the fridge or boil them quickly and pat dry. Never fry while frozen; it’s dangerous and messy.

Step 2: Set Up Dredging Stations

• In your first shallow dish, combine flour with salt and pepper.
• In a second bowl, whisk together eggs and whole milk until smooth.
• The third bowl is for Italian breadcrumbs, panko, and half the grated parmesan—mix well.

Step 3: Dredge the Ravioli

Coat each ravioli first in the seasoned flour (tap off excess), then dip thoroughly in the egg-milk mixture. Finish with a good roll through the cheesy breadcrumb mix, pressing gently so every nook is covered.

Step 4: Heat Oil for Frying

Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep skillet to submerge the ravioli. Attach a kitchen thermometer and bring the oil to 325°F. This is important! The right temperature gives you bubbly golden perfection without greasy results.

Step 5: Fry in Batches

Carefully lower 5 to 7 ravioli at a time into the oil. Fry for about 2–3 minutes per side, watching for a deep golden brown color. Don’t crowd the pan—give each ravioli space for ultimate crispiness. Flip as needed.

Step 6: Drain and Garnish

Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel–lined tray. Sprinkle immediately with the rest of your parmesan and some chopped parsley, if desired.

Step 7: Serve Hot!

These are best enjoyed while they’re still warm and crunchy.

How to Serve

Fried Ravioli is outrageously good dipped in warm marinara sauce. But don’t stop there!

• With Dips: Marinara, garlic aioli, pesto, or even ranch.
• Party Platter: Arrange in a big dish topped with extra parmesan and parsley—it’ll disappear before you know it.
• Appetizer Board: Pair with olives, mozzarella balls, and roasted veggies.
• Light Meal: Serve alongside a big Italian salad or cup of soup.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any extra fried ravioli cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Fried ravioli freeze exceptionally well. Arrange cooled ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer until hot and crisp (about 8–10 minutes). Skip the microwave—it makes them soggy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Fried Ravioli is comfort food at its finest—crispy, cheesy, endlessly snackable, and so easy to make. If you’ve never tried your ravioli this way, you’re truly in for a treat. Gather your ingredients, invite some friends or family to join in, and enjoy a warm, crunchy, flavor-packed batch tonight. Don’t be surprised if Fried Ravioli quickly becomes one of your weeknight go-tos!

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