Crispy Fried Ravioli: A Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion

If you love Italian food, you’ll fall head over heels for these crispy fried ravioli. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family dinner, or just treating yourself to a snack, this recipe has got you covered. It’s a fun twist on traditional ravioli, and when it’s air-fried (or oven-baked!), it’s light, crispy, and absolutely mouthwatering. The best part? It’s an easy-to-make appetizer that takes less time than you think!

In this blog, I’ll show you how to make crispy ravioli, share ideas for serving them, and also toss in some other appetizer and meal ideas that will make your dinner gatherings extra special. So, grab your apron and let’s get started!

What Are Fried Ravioli?

Fried ravioli is exactly what it sounds like: ravioli that’s been breaded and fried (or air-fried) to a crispy perfection. Think of it as a delightful finger food or appetizer that’s great for dipping, sharing, or snacking on the go. These little bites of heaven are packed with cheese or other fillings, coated in a crunchy breadcrumb exterior, and served warm with your favorite marinara sauce for dipping.

But let me tell you, once you’ve had crispy ravioli, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making them all along!

Ingredients for Crispy Fried Ravioli

I like to keep it simple when I’m making appetizers, so here’s a short list of ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. This recipe is super customizable, so feel free to swap in different types of ravioli if you prefer!

• Frozen ravioli (cheese or your favorite filling)
• Eggs (to help the breadcrumbs stick)
• Breadcrumbs (regular or panko for extra crunch)
• Parmesan cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
• Olive oil spray (to help the crispy coating form)

That’s it! You’ll be amazed at how such a simple combination of ingredients can create such a satisfying snack or appetizer.

How to Make Fried Ravioli in an Air Fryer

Now let’s get to the fun part: cooking. I love using the air fryer for this recipe because it gives the ravioli that crispy texture without needing a ton of oil. It’s also quick and easy—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner ideas.

Step 1: Prep the Breading Station

Set up your breading station with two shallow bowls:

• Bowl 1: Crack an egg (or two, depending on how many ravioli you’re making) and whisk it until it’s smooth.
• Bowl 2: Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (optional) and mix them up.

You’ll be dipping the ravioli into the egg, then coating them with the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 2: Bread the Ravioli

Take each frozen ravioli and dip it into the egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, press it into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure it’s fully covered with breadcrumbs so that you get that perfect crunch when it cooks.

Step 3: Air Fry the Ravioli

Now for the fun part! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil, then arrange the breaded ravioli in a single layer. You don’t want to overcrowd the basket; give each ravioli a little space to crisp up properly.

Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and crispy. The ravioli will have a nice crunch on the outside, while the cheesy filling stays warm and melty on the inside.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once your crispy ravioli is done, serve them up with a side of marinara sauce (or your favorite dipping sauce). You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese over the top for that extra cheesy goodness.

These fried ravioli are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of an Italian-themed dinner.

More Ideas for Easy Appetizers and Meals

As much as I love crispy ravioli, sometimes you need a few more options to fill out your meal plan. Here are some other appetizer ideas and meal ideas that are easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious:

1. Pasta Bites: Mini Pasta Dishes in One Bite

If you’re looking for another bite-sized option that’s perfect for parties or casual dinners, try pasta bites. You can make these by baking cooked pasta, like penne or rotini, with marinara sauce and cheese until they’re crispy on the outside. Serve them with some extra sauce for dipping, and you’ve got yourself a unique appetizer that everyone will love!

2. Italian Meal Appetizers: Stuffed Mushrooms

When it comes to Italian appetizers, stuffed mushrooms are always a hit. I love filling mushroom caps with a mixture of cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, and spinach, then baking them until they’re golden and bubbly. It’s a warm, cheesy treat that pairs well with any pasta dish or as a stand-alone snack.

3. Fried Ravioli Recipe (Air Fryer or Oven)

Of course, we’ve already covered the air fryer method, but did you know you can also make fried ravioli in the oven? It’s just as easy! Simply bake the breaded ravioli at 400°F (205°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for that golden, crispy texture. This method is perfect if you want to save time and make a larger batch.

4. Appy Dinner Ideas: Italian Charcuterie Board

For something a bit more laid-back, an Italian charcuterie board is the way to go. Load up a platter with sliced meats like salami, prosciutto, and pepperoni, and add some marinated olives, cheese (think mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone), fresh bread, and dipping oils. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with family and friends.

5. Ravioli Parmesan: A Main Dish Twist

If you’re craving something a bit more filling, try making ravioli Parmesan. Start with cooked ravioli (frozen or fresh), cover them with marinara sauce, and sprinkle generously with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden, and you’ve got a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need a hearty dish in no time!

6. Crispy Ravioli with a Side of Garlic Bread

For a simple but satisfying dinner, serve crispy ravioli with a side of garlic bread. The warm, cheesy ravioli pairs perfectly with crispy, buttery garlic bread for a meal that everyone will enjoy. You can make your garlic bread at home or pick up a pre-made version from the store to save time.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re making crispy ravioli in the air fryer, preparing a cheesy ravioli Parmesan, or serving up a full Italian-themed meal with appetizers like stuffed mushrooms and pasta bites, these recipes are designed to make your life easier. The beauty of these dishes is that they’re not only delicious but also super easy to prepare, meaning you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.

These recipes are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a family meal, or just craving a tasty snack. So, next time you’re looking for something easy but impressive, give these fried ravioli and other Italian-inspired appetizers a try. I promise they’ll be a hit!