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This crispy toasted ravioli has become my go-to appetizer for everything from game day gatherings to casual dinner parties. The air fryer transforms ordinary frozen ravioli into golden, crunchy bites that disappear within minutes of hitting the table.
I first made these when hosting an impromptu football watch party and was amazed at how quickly they disappeared. Now my friends specifically request these whenever they come over, and I always make a double batch.
Ingredients
- Frozen cheese ravioli: The star of the show that saves prep time while providing a delicious filling
- Eggs: Create the essential sticky surface for breadcrumbs to adhere properly
- Panko breadcrumbs: The secret to the ultra crispy exterior that regular breadcrumbs cannot achieve
- Italian seasoning: Infuses the coating with classic herbs that complement the cheese filling
- Salt and black pepper: Basic but essential for proper seasoning of the coating
- Oil or oil spray: Helps achieve that golden brown exterior that makes these irresistible
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty salty finish that elevates these to restaurant quality
- Fresh or dried herbs: The final touch that adds color and freshness to the finished dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the dipping station:
- Beat eggs in a shallow bowl until fully combined. In a separate bowl mix breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning salt and pepper until evenly distributed. Position these bowls side by side for an efficient assembly line.
- Bread the ravioli:
- Take each frozen ravioli and dip fully in the beaten egg ensuring complete coverage. Transfer to the breadcrumb mixture and press gently to coat all sides. Place on a plate and continue until all ravioli are breaded.
- Prepare the air fryer:
- Spray the air fryer basket lightly with oil to prevent sticking. Arrange breaded ravioli in a single layer making sure they do not touch each other. Spray the tops lightly with oil for extra crispiness.
- First air frying phase:
- Set air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 7 minutes until the bottoms begin turning golden brown. This initial cooking establishes the base crispiness.
- Flip and finish cooking:
- Open the air fryer and carefully flip each ravioli using tongs. Spray the newly exposed sides with oil and continue cooking for another 7 minutes until uniformly golden brown and crispy throughout.
- Garnish and serve:
- Transfer immediately to a serving platter. While still hot sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs which will slightly melt into the hot surface. Serve with warm marinara sauce in a small bowl for dipping.
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These toasted ravioli remind me of my first trip to St. Louis where I discovered this regional specialty. The traditional version is deep fried but after experimenting with my air fryer I discovered this healthier version tastes just as good and now my Italian grandmother even asks for my recipe!
Oven Method Alternative
If you do not have an air fryer you can absolutely make these in the oven with fantastic results. The key difference is using a higher temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit to achieve similar crispiness. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper which prevents sticking while promoting even browning on the bottom.
The oven method allows you to make larger batches at once which is perfect when serving a crowd. Just remember to flip them halfway through cooking and apply another light spray of oil to ensure both sides get equally crispy. The total cooking time is about 15 minutes which is comparable to the air fryer method.
Dipping Sauce Variations
While classic marinara is the traditional pairing I like to offer a variety of dipping options when serving these as party appetizers. A creamy garlic parmesan sauce made with equal parts sour cream and mayo with grated parmesan and minced garlic creates a rich alternative.
For a spicier option mix marinara with a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Another crowd pleaser is a simple pesto aioli made by combining mayonnaise with prepared pesto. Having multiple dipping options allows guests to customize their experience.
Make Ahead And Storage
These toasted ravioli maintain their quality remarkably well even when made ahead of time. You can bread the ravioli up to 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap. This makes them perfect for planning party menus.
Once cooked leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat simply place them back in the air fryer at 320 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 minutes or in a 350 degree oven for 5 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwave reheating which makes them soggy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use homemade ravioli for this dish?
- Yes, you can use homemade ravioli, but ensure they are frozen first to hold their shape during coating and cooking.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with toasted ravioli?
- Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also serve them with ranch, garlic aioli, or pesto for variety.
- → How do I prevent the ravioli from sticking to the air fryer basket?
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with oil before placing the breaded ravioli in a single layer.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
- You can bread the ravioli ahead of time and refrigerate them for a few hours. Cook them fresh for the best texture.
- → What other seasonings can I use for the breadcrumbs?
- You can experiment with garlic powder, paprika, or red chili flakes for added flavor in the breadcrumb mixture.