Toasted Ravioli is a crispy, golden, and flavorful twist on the classic breaded and fried ravioli. Instead of deep-frying, these ravioli are baked to perfection, resulting in a lighter version that still delivers that satisfying crunch. They’re stuffed with cheese and herbs, then coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture, making each bite a savory delight. Often served with marinara sauce for dipping, they make for an irresistible appetizer or snack.
The first time I made Toasted Ravioli, I was amazed by how easy it was to get that perfect crunch without deep-frying. The ravioli retained their cheesy filling, while the breadcrumbs provided a light, crispy coating. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—you can fill the ravioli with a variety of cheeses, add spices or herbs for extra flavor, or even serve them with a tangy dipping sauce like marinara or pesto. It’s a fun, tasty dish that’s perfect for gatherings or when you just want something crispy and comforting!
Perfect for:
- Appetizers
- Game day snacks
- Party platters
- Family dinners
- Italian food lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why Toasted Ravioli will be your new go-to appetizer:
- Crispy and Crunchy: The breading creates the perfect crunch, adding a satisfying texture to each bite.
- Cheesy Filling: The ricotta and Parmesan blend creates a creamy, flavorful filling that pairs perfectly with the crispy exterior.
- Perfect for Dipping: Served with marinara sauce, these ravioli offer a savory contrast to the tangy dip.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple and fast, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or parties.
- Kid-Friendly: The crispy, cheesy pockets are loved by both kids and adults alike.
- Customizable Fillings: Feel free to get creative with the fillings by adding cooked meat or spinach for variation.
- Versatile: Great as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main dish when paired with a salad.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare and freeze the ravioli in advance for an easy snack or appetizer on demand.
- Perfect for Entertaining: These bite-sized treats are ideal for serving at parties or gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Toasted ravioli are always a hit, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a formal dinner.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 18g
Ingredients
For the Ravioli:
- 1 package of fresh or frozen ravioli (cheese-filled or your choice of filling)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Breadcrumbs: Provide the perfect crispy coating to the ravioli.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the breading.
- Fresh Ravioli: Choose a high-quality, cheese-filled ravioli for the best taste and texture.
- Marinara Sauce: A tangy and savory dip that complements the toasted ravioli.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Ravioli:
- Cook the Ravioli: If using fresh ravioli, cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. If using frozen ravioli, thaw them before cooking.
- Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with a beaten egg, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, and basil.
- Bread the Ravioli: Dip each cooked ravioli first into the flour, then into the egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil over medium heat.
- Fry the Ravioli: Fry the breaded ravioli in batches, turning them occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain: Transfer the fried ravioli to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Make the Marinara Sauce:
- Heat the Sauce: In a small saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Add olive oil, garlic powder, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using), and simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors.
Serve:
- Plate and Serve: Arrange the toasted ravioli on a serving platter and serve with the marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Toasted Ravioli:
- As an Appetizer: Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping at the start of your meal.
- At Parties: These bite-sized treats are perfect for party platters or game day snacks.
- With a Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a simple and satisfying meal.
- For Movie Night: Perfect for snacking while watching a movie with friends or family.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.
- As a Main Dish: Enjoy them as a main course with pasta and a side of vegetables.
- With Pesto Sauce: Try dipping in pesto for a different flavor profile.
- As a Snack: These crispy delights make a great afternoon snack.
- With Parmesan Shavings: Top with extra Parmesan for an added cheesy touch.
- For Entertaining: These make a great crowd-pleasing dish at dinner parties or gatherings.
Additional Tips
- Freeze for Later: After breading, you can freeze the ravioli and fry them later for an easy meal.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough to fry the ravioli properly. If it’s too cold, the ravioli will absorb more oil and become soggy.
- Crispy Coating: To ensure the coating is crispy, don’t overcrowd the pan when frying.
- Use Fresh Ravioli: Fresh ravioli tend to hold up better when frying than frozen ones.
- Alternative Sauces: Try different dipping sauces like ranch dressing, aioli, or a creamy garlic dip.
Recipe Variations
- Spinach and Ricotta Filling: Swap the cheese filling for a spinach and ricotta filling for a vegetarian twist.
- Meat-Filled Ravioli: Use meat-filled ravioli for a heartier version of this dish.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish gluten-free.
- Baked Ravioli: For a lighter version, bake the breaded ravioli instead of frying them.
- Spicy Version: Add a bit of crushed red pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Sauce: Serve with a rich cheese sauce instead of marinara for a creamy alternative.
- Italian Herb Mix: Add Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mix for a more robust flavor.
Special Equipment
- Large Skillet: For frying the ravioli.
- Shallow Bowls: For breading the ravioli.
- Tongs: To handle the ravioli while frying.
- Paper Towels: To drain excess oil after frying.
- Small Saucepan: For heating the marinara sauce.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen ravioli?
Yes, frozen ravioli works well for this recipe. Just thaw them before breading and frying. - How long do toasted ravioli last?
They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness. - Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the ravioli and freeze them for later frying. - Can I bake the ravioli instead of frying?
Yes, place the breaded ravioli on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy. - What can I use if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy coating. - Can I use a different dipping sauce?
Yes, toasted ravioli pairs well with a variety of sauces, such as ranch, pesto, or a creamy garlic dip. - Can I use a different cheese filling?
Absolutely! You can use mozzarella, ricotta, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses. - How do I make them extra crispy?
Ensure the oil is hot and fry the ravioli in small batches to avoid overcrowding. - Can I freeze the marinara sauce?
Yes, you can freeze marinara sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Use vegan cheese and a plant-based egg replacement for breading to make the dish vegan.
Conclusion
Toasted Ravioli is a crispy, golden-brown appetizer that transforms the classic ravioli into a deliciously crunchy bite. These ravioli are breaded and lightly fried or baked until perfectly crispy, creating a crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft, flavorful filling inside. The traditional ricotta and spinach or meat filling is complemented by a light coating of breadcrumbs and seasoning, making each bite savory and satisfying.
Toasted Ravioli is often served with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, allowing you to enjoy the warm, crispy pockets with a tangy, herby sauce. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a snack, or a fun dinner, these crispy bites are always a hit at parties, family gatherings, or as a quick and easy treat.
I can’t wait to see how your Toasted Ravioli turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your tasty creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!