The magic of toasted ravioli lies in its perfect balance of crispy, golden crust and warm, cheesy filling. This easy air fryer recipe brings the classic Italian-inspired dish to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether served as an appetizer, a party snack, or even a fun twist on dinner, these crunchy delights are sure to impress.
Dipped in rich, zesty marinara sauce, each bite of these toasted ravioli delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of cheesy goodness. Making them in the air fryer ensures a light, crispy texture without the heaviness of deep frying. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests with a restaurant-quality dish.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese or meat ravioli (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Cooking spray or olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
- Dip each ravioli into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated ravioli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with a bit of olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 minutes | Total Time: 18 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
Crispy Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli: A Perfectly Crunchy and Delicious Appetizer
Toasted ravioli is a beloved dish with deep roots in Italian American cuisine, offering a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful bite that has stood the test of time. Traditionally deep-fried, this delicious appetizer gets a healthier and easier twist when made in the air fryer. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, air fryer toasted ravioli delivers restaurant-quality flavor with a light, crispy texture without the need for excessive oil or frying mess.
The Origin of Toasted Ravioli
Toasted ravioli is said to have originated in St. Louis, Missouri, particularly in the historic Italian neighborhood known as The Hill. According to legend, a chef accidentally dropped fresh ravioli into hot oil, and instead of discarding them, he found that the result was a crunchy and irresistible dish. This happy accident quickly became a staple appetizer in Italian-American restaurants, particularly in the Midwest, where it remains a fan favorite to this day.
Traditionally, toasted ravioli is deep-fried, then sprinkled with grated cheese and served with marinara sauce for dipping. While undeniably delicious, deep frying can be time-consuming and adds unnecessary calories and fat. The air fryer offers a modern solution, making it possible to enjoy this classic dish with a fraction of the oil and effort.
Why Make Toasted Ravioli in the Air Fryer?
The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking, making it easy to achieve crispy, golden textures without the need for excessive oil. Here are a few reasons why air frying is the best method for making toasted ravioli:
- Healthier Alternative – Traditional deep frying requires a significant amount of oil, which increases the calorie and fat content of the dish. Air frying achieves the same crispiness using just a light spray of oil or none at all.
- Quick and Easy – The air fryer heats up quickly and cooks food faster than a conventional oven. Toasted ravioli is ready in under 10 minutes, making it a great last-minute appetizer or snack.
- Less Mess – Without oil splattering everywhere, clean-up is a breeze. The air fryer basket can be easily wiped down after cooking.
- Perfectly Crispy – The circulating hot air ensures an even crispness on all sides, eliminating the risk of soggy or unevenly cooked ravioli.
Customizing Your Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you prefer a meat-filled ravioli, a classic cheese stuffed version, or even a plant based option, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish:
- Different Fillings – While cheese and beef ravioli are the most popular, you can experiment with spinach and ricotta, mushroom, or even lobster ravioli for a gourmet twist.
- Spices and Herbs – Enhance the breadcrumb coating with additional seasonings such as smoked paprika, cayenne pepper for a little heat, or fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.
- Dipping Sauces – While marinara sauce is the traditional choice, you can try alfredo sauce, garlic butter, or even a creamy ranch dressing for a unique pairing.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free ravioli and breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Serving Suggestions
Toasted ravioli is an incredibly versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
- As an Appetizer – Serve as a starter for an Italian-themed dinner or at parties and gatherings. Arrange on a platter with a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Game Day Snack – Perfect for game nights, movie marathons, or tailgating events. These crispy bites will be a hit with guests!
- Part of a Pasta Night – Pair toasted ravioli with a fresh Caesar salad and a bowl of creamy fettuccine alfredo for a complete Italian feast.
- Kid-Friendly Meal – Kids love anything crunchy and cheesy! Serve these with a side of fruit or veggies for a balanced meal.
Storing and Reheating Toasted Ravioli
If you have leftovers (though they tend to disappear quickly!), you can store toasted ravioli and enjoy them later. Here’s how:
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze before or after air frying. To freeze before cooking, arrange the breaded ravioli on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, simply air fry from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes.
- Reheating – The best way to reheat is in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until warm and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the ravioli soggy.
Conclusion
Air fryer toasted ravioli is a simple yet crowd-pleasing dish that brings the perfect balance of crispy texture and cheesy goodness. With minimal effort and a healthier approach compared to deep frying, this recipe makes it easier than ever to enjoy a restaurant-quality appetizer at home. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, a party dish, or part of an Italian feast, these crunchy bites are sure to become a household favorite. So grab your air fryer, whip up a batch, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade toasted ravioli!