Golden, crispy, and oozing with cheesy goodness, these Toasted Ravioli are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a rich, cheesy filling, making them a perfect snack or starter for any occasion. Whether served at a family dinner, a party, or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
What makes this recipe even better is how quick and easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you can have a restaurant-quality appetizer in no time. Pair these crispy ravioli with warm marinara sauce for dipping, garnish with fresh parsley, and watch them disappear from the plate. It’s the perfect combination of texture, flavor, and nostalgia, bringing classic Italian flavors straight to your table.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated cheese ravioli
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
Directions:
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs and milk.
- In another dish, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip each ravioli into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry the coated ravioli in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with warm marinara sauce.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Crispy, Cheesy Toasted Ravioli
Toasted Ravioli is a beloved appetizer that originated in St. Louis, Missouri, and has since become a favorite across the United States. This dish transforms simple cheese ravioli into a crispy, golden-brown delight, perfect for dipping into warm marinara sauce. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer for a gathering, a side dish for an Italian feast, or even as a main course, Toasted Ravioli never fails to impress.
The History of Toasted Ravioli
Toasted Ravioli has deep roots in Italian-American cuisine, specifically in St. Louis’s historic Italian neighborhood, The Hill. According to local legend, the dish was created by accident when a chef at a restaurant mistakenly dropped a ravioli into hot oil instead of boiling water. Rather than discarding it, they decided to serve it, and the result was a crispy, cheesy treat that quickly became a staple. Over time, the recipe has evolved, incorporating different coatings, seasonings, and variations, but the core concept remains the same: a crunchy, golden ravioli filled with delicious cheese or meat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best things about Toasted Ravioli is how easy it is to make. Using store-bought ravioli saves time, while a simple breadcrumb and Parmesan coating ensures the perfect crispy texture. This recipe requires minimal effort and delivers restaurant-quality results, making it an excellent choice for home cooks of all levels.
Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this dish:
- Quick and Easy – It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Everyone loves crispy, cheesy bites of pasta!
- Customizable – Works with different fillings, from classic cheese to meat or even spinach and ricotta.
- Perfect for Dipping – Marinara sauce pairs perfectly with the crunchy coating.
- Great for Any Occasion – Serve it as an appetizer, snack, or even a meal with a side salad.
Tips for the Best Toasted Ravioli
Achieving the perfect crispy texture while maintaining the cheesy goodness inside requires a few key tips:
- Use Fresh or Refrigerated Ravioli – Frozen ravioli can be used, but make sure to thaw it first so the coating sticks properly.
- Double Coat for Extra Crunch – For an even crispier texture, dip the ravioli in the egg mixture and breadcrumb coating twice.
- Fry in Small Batches – Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking.
- Maintain the Right Oil Temperature – Keep the oil at around 350°F (175°C) to prevent soggy or burnt ravioli.
- Drain on a Paper Towel – This helps remove excess oil and keeps them crispy longer.
- Serve Immediately – Toasted Ravioli is best enjoyed fresh while it’s still warm and crunchy.
Baking vs. Frying: Which Is Better?
Traditionally, Toasted Ravioli is deep-fried, giving it that irresistible golden-brown crust. However, if you prefer a lighter version, you can bake or air-fry them.
- Baking Method – Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated ravioli on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spray them with cooking oil and bake for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air-Frying Method – Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the ravioli in a single layer. Spray them lightly with oil and air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Both methods reduce the amount of oil while still delivering a crispy exterior, though frying remains the most traditional and flavorful option.
Best Dipping Sauces for Toasted Ravioli
While marinara sauce is the classic pairing for Toasted Ravioli, there are plenty of other delicious dipping options to try:
- Alfredo Sauce – A rich, creamy option for cheese lovers.
- Pesto – Adds a fresh, herby twist to balance the crispy texture.
- Garlic Butter Sauce – A simple, flavorful alternative.
- Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce – For those who love a little heat.
- Ranch Dressing – A surprising but delicious choice for a creamy contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Toasted Ravioli is an incredibly versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some serving ideas:
- As an Appetizer – Serve with a side of marinara and sprinkle fresh Parmesan and parsley on top.
- As a Main Dish – Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- With a Charcuterie Board – Add it to a board with cured meats, cheeses, and olives for an Italian-inspired snack platter.
- Party Platter – Serve alongside other finger foods like mozzarella sticks, bruschetta, and stuffed mushrooms.
Variations of Toasted Ravioli
While classic cheese-filled ravioli is the most common, there are plenty of ways to switch things up:
- Meat-Filled Ravioli – Use beef or sausage-filled ravioli for a heartier bite.
- Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli – Adds a slightly lighter, more herby flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ravioli to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- Spicy Version – Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick.
- Herb-Infused Crust – Mix in Italian herbs like basil and oregano to enhance the flavor.
Storing and Reheating Toasted Ravioli
If you have leftovers, they can be stored and reheated easily while maintaining their crispiness.
- Refrigeration – Store leftover Toasted Ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating in the Oven – Place them on a baking sheet and heat at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Air-Frying – Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Avoid Microwaving – While convenient, microwaving makes them soft and soggy.
Conclusion
Toasted Ravioli is a simple yet delicious dish that has stood the test of time. Whether you’re making it for a party, a family dinner, or just to satisfy a craving, this crispy, cheesy appetizer never disappoints. The combination of crunchy breadcrumbs, melted cheese, and tangy marinara sauce creates an irresistible bite every time.
What makes this dish even better is its adaptability—whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, there’s a method that suits every preference. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, experiment with different fillings, and enjoy a taste of St. Louis tradition in your own home.
So the next time you’re looking for a quick and crowd-pleasing dish, give Toasted Ravioli a try. It’s crispy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion!