Fried Ravioli

Fried Ravioli is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for game day snacks or as a delicious appetizer. The crispy, golden exterior gives way to a warm, cheesy center that makes every bite irresistible. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this dish is sure to impress at any gathering or family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Perfection: Each ravioli is breaded and fried until golden brown, creating a delightful crunch.
• Cheesy Goodness: The melted cheese inside provides a comforting and rich flavor that pairs well with various sauces.
• Versatile Snack: Whether served at parties, game days, or as a fun family meal, these fried ravioli fit any occasion perfectly.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of total time needed, you can whip up this treat in no time!
• Customizable Dipping Sauces: Serve with marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli for an extra flavor boost.

Tools and Preparation

To make Fried Ravioli easily and efficiently, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Deep-sided skillet
• Candy or deep-frying thermometer
• Shallow dishes (for breading)
• Parchment paper lined baking sheet
• Paper towels

Why These Tools Matter

• Deep-sided skillet: This allows for safe frying with enough oil to submerge the ravioli completely.
• Candy or deep-frying thermometer: Ensures that the oil reaches the correct temperature for even cooking and prevents burning.
• Shallow dishes: Provide ample space for dredging ingredients without making a mess.

Ingredients

Fried Ravioli is breaded and cooked until crispy on the outside and soft and cheesy in the center. Great for game day snacks or serving as an appetizer with dipping sauce.

Ingredients:
– 25 ounce frozen cheese ravioli pasta (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 fresh 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 bread crumbs and ¼ cup garnish)
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley (optional garnish)

How to Make Fried Ravioli

Step 1: Thaw the Ravioli

To thaw the frozen ravioli, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or boil for just a few minutes and pat dry with paper towels. Avoid frying frozen ravioli directly as it can pop and cause burns.

Step 2: Prepare Breading Stations

1. In a shallow dish, add the flour, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
2. In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined.
3. In a third shallow bowl, combine the Italian bread crumbs, panko bread crumbs, and ½ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Step 3: Heat Oil

Fill your deep-sided skillet with 3 to 4 cups of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Ensure there’s enough oil for complete submersion of ravioli. Attach a candy or deep-frying thermometer to monitor temperature. Heat until it reaches 325°F.

Step 4: Dredge Ravioli

While waiting for oil to heat:
1. Dredge each ravioli first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
2. Next, dip it into the egg mixture.
3. Finally, coat in the breadcrumb mixture before placing on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Fry the Ravioli

Once oil has reached 325°F:
1. Carefully add 5 to 7 raviolis into the hot oil.
2. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
3. Monitor temperature closely; adjust heat as necessary since raviolis will puff up during cooking.

Step 6: Drain Ravioli

Place cooked ravioli on a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle remaining ¼ cup of parmesan cheese over fried ravioli while warm. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces!

How to Serve Fried Ravioli

Fried Ravioli is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a game day or a cozy gathering, these crispy bites can be served with an array of delicious accompaniments.

With Dipping Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: A classic choice, marinara adds a rich tomato flavor that complements the cheese filling.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch provides a tangy contrast and makes for a fun dipping experience.
• Pesto: For a unique twist, try serving with basil pesto, which adds herby freshness.

As a Salad Topping

• Caesar Salad: Tossing fried ravioli on top of Caesar salad elevates the dish with texture and flavor.
• Mixed Greens: Add crispy ravioli to mixed greens with vinaigrette for a hearty yet light meal.

On Charcuterie Boards

• Snack Platter: Incorporate fried ravioli into your charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, and cured meats for an appealing variety.
• Appetizer Spread: Pair them with assorted dips and spreads for guests to enjoy while mingling.

How to Perfect Fried Ravioli

To achieve the best Fried Ravioli, follow these simple tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Bold Thawing Method: Ensure ravioli is completely thawed to prevent oil splattering during frying.
• Bold Oil Temperature: Maintain oil at 325°F for optimal frying; too hot can burn the coating while leaving the inside cold.
• Bold Dredging Technique: Coat each ravioli thoroughly in flour, egg mixture, and breadcrumbs to create an even crispy shell.
• Bold Batch Cooking: Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet; this helps maintain the oil temperature.
• Bold Cooling Strategy: Place fried ravioli on paper towels immediately after frying to absorb excess oil and keep them crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Fried Ravioli

Fried Ravioli pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover dipping sauce.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the rich fried ravioli.
3. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans add a healthy touch to your meal.
4. Zucchini Fries: Crispy zucchini fries offer another fun finger food option alongside your ravioli.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity that balances the richness of fried ravioli.
6. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges are great for those who love hearty sides that fill you up.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Fried Ravioli, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Skipping the Thawing Process: Not thawing the ravioli properly can cause them to burst during frying. Always thaw overnight in the refrigerator or boil briefly before frying.
• Neglecting Oil Temperature: Frying at the wrong temperature can lead to soggy or burnt ravioli. Use a thermometer and maintain oil at 325°F for best results.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many ravioli at once can lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking. Fry in small batches for even crispiness.
• Forgetting to Drain: Placing fried ravioli directly on a plate can make them greasy. Always use paper towels to absorb excess oil after frying.
• Omitting Seasonings: Skipping seasoning in your breading mix can make your fried ravioli bland. Don’t forget salt, pepper, and cheese for enhanced flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Fried Ravioli in an airtight container.
• They will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Fried Ravioli

• Place cooled, cooked ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Fried Ravioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread ravioli on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Place ravioli on a microwave-safe plate covered with a paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through, but note they may become soft.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little oil or butter. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Fried Ravioli from scratch?

Making Fried Ravioli from scratch involves preparing pasta dough, filling it with cheese or other fillings, cutting into shapes, then breading and frying as directed.

Can I use different fillings for Fried Ravioli?

Absolutely! You can customize your Fried Ravioli with various fillings like spinach, mushrooms, or meat alternatives based on your taste preferences.

What dipping sauces pair well with Fried Ravioli?

Marinara sauce is classic, but you can also try garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or pesto for diverse flavor options.

Can I bake instead of fry Fried Ravioli?

Yes! For a healthier option, bake them at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown.

How should I serve Fried Ravioli?

Fried Ravioli makes an excellent appetizer or snack. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Conclusion

Fried Ravioli is an incredibly versatile dish perfect for any occasion—whether game day snacks or party appetizers. With various filling options and delicious dipping sauces, you can customize this recipe to suit any palate. Give it a try today!

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