Fried Ravioli

These Fried Ravioli are crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy in the center, and perfect for game day snacks or appetizers. Served with your favorite dipping sauce, these little bites are an irresistible treat that will disappear in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fried Ravioli is the ultimate comfort food with a twist. The combination of golden, crispy breading and creamy, cheesy ravioli makes every bite absolutely delicious. It’s a fun and easy-to-make appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game days, or just as a quick snack. Plus, it pairs perfectly with marinara sauce, ranch, or any dipping sauce of your choice, making it a customizable treat that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 25 ounces frozen cheese ravioli (thawed, I used Great Value brand)

• 3-4 cups vegetable oil

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

• 2 large eggs

• ⅓ cup whole milk

• 1 cup Italian bread crumbs

• ¾ cup panko bread crumbs

• ¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (divide ½ cup for breading, ¼ cup for garnish)

• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley (optional garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Thaw the Ravioli: Thaw frozen ravioli overnight in the refrigerator, or boil them for a few minutes and pat dry with paper towels. (Do not fry frozen ravioli as they can pop and cause burns.)

2. Prepare the Breading: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs and milk together until fully combined. In a third shallow dish, combine the Italian bread crumbs, panko bread crumbs, and ½ cup of the freshly grated parmesan cheese.

3. Heat the Oil: Fill a deep-sided skillet with 3-4 cups of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be enough to fully submerge the ravioli. Attach a candy or deep-frying thermometer to the side of the skillet. Heat the oil to 325°F.

4. Bread the Ravioli: Dredge each ravioli first in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it in the egg mixture, then coat it in the bread crumb and parmesan mixture. Place each breaded ravioli on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

5. Fry the Ravioli: Once the oil reaches 325°F, carefully add 5-7 ravioli at a time. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. The ravioli will puff up, which is normal. Keep an eye on the temperature, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain 325°F.

6. Drain and Serve: Place the cooked ravioli on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with the remaining ¼ cup of parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped parsley (optional). Serve warm with dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Calories: 184 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add a Spice Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breading mixture for a spicy twist on this classic recipe.

• Try Different Dips: Experiment with different dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, garlic butter, or pesto, to change up the flavor.

• Use Different Ravioli: While cheese ravioli is the classic choice, you can experiment with other types of ravioli, such as spinach, meat, or mushroom-filled varieties.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free bread crumbs to make this dish gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover fried ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. You can also use the air fryer for reheating.

• Freezing: To freeze, place the breaded (but un-fried) ravioli on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the frying time.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh ravioli, but make sure to dry them thoroughly before breading and frying to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I make these ravioli ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the ravioli and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze the breaded ravioli for longer storage.

3. What oil is best for frying?

Vegetable oil works best for frying due to its high smoke point, but you can also use canola oil or peanut oil.

4. Can I bake the ravioli instead of frying them?

While frying gives the best crispy texture, you can bake the ravioli in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, to get a lighter version.

5. Can I make these ravioli without cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese in the ravioli if you prefer, or use a vegan cheese substitute to make the recipe dairy-free.

6. How do I know when the oil is hot enough?

Using a deep-frying thermometer is the most accurate way to check the oil temperature. It should reach 325°F for optimal frying.

7. Can I serve these with other toppings?

Yes! You can add a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra flavor.

8. How do I prevent the ravioli from sticking together while frying?

Fry the ravioli in batches and don’t overcrowd the skillet. This ensures that each piece gets enough space to cook properly and crisply.

9. Can I use a deep fryer?

Yes, you can use a deep fryer if you prefer. Follow the same steps but adjust the oil temperature to 325°F.

10. Can I use frozen breaded ravioli?

Yes, if you have pre-breaded frozen ravioli, you can fry them directly from frozen. Just be sure to check the cooking instructions on the package.

Conclusion

Fried Ravioli is the ultimate crispy, cheesy snack that’s perfect for any occasion. With a golden, crunchy exterior and a creamy, cheesy center, these ravioli are an irresistible treat that everyone will love. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or game day treat, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy them fresh from the fryer with your favorite dipping sauce!