Fried Ravioli

Fried Ravioli is a delightful dish that brings together the best of both worlds: crispy on the outside and gooey cheesy goodness on the inside. Perfect for game day snacks or as an appetizer, these fried parcels are sure to impress your guests. With a simple preparation process, you’ll be enjoying this crowd-pleaser in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can whip up this delicious treat in under 30 minutes.
• Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a cozy night in with family.
• Versatile Dipping Options: Pair with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or any of your favorite dips to elevate your snack experience.
• Crispy Texture: The combination of bread crumbs and panko creates an irresistible crunch.
• Customizable Filling: While cheese ravioli is traditional, feel free to experiment with different fillings to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet
• Shallow dishes (3)
• Whisk
• Candy thermometer
• Parchment paper

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet: A deep-sided skillet allows for even frying and ensures the ravioli cook thoroughly without burning.
• Shallow Dishes: Using shallow dishes makes dredging the ravioli easier and helps maintain an organized workspace.
• Candy Thermometer: This tool ensures your oil reaches the perfect frying temperature for crispy results.

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, you have two options:
1. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Boil for just a few minutes and pat dry with paper towels.
– Note: Avoid frying frozen ravioli as it can pop and cause burns.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dredging Stations

In three separate shallow dishes, prepare your dredging stations:
1. In the first dish, combine all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
2. In the second dish, whisk together eggs and whole milk until fully combined.
3. In the third dish, mix together Italian bread crumbs, panko bread crumbs, and ½ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Fill your deep-sided skillet with 3 to 4 cups of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Make sure there’s enough oil to completely submerge the ravioli when frying. Attach a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature; it should reach 325°F before frying.

Step 4: Dredge the Ravioli

While waiting for the oil to heat:
1. Take each thawed ravioli and dredge it first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
2. Next, dip it into the egg mixture.
3. Finally, coat it with the bread crumb mixture before placing on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Frying Time!

Once your oil reaches 325°F:
1. Carefully add 5 to 7 raviolis at a time into the hot oil.
2. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them; adjust heat as necessary if they cook too quickly or slowly.
– The ravioli will puff up slightly during cooking.

Step 6: Drain and Garnish

After frying:
1. Transfer cooked ravioli onto a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.
2. Sprinkle with remaining ¼ cup of freshly grated parmesan while still warm.
3. Optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your crispy Fried Ravioli hot with your favorite dipping sauces!

How to Serve Fried Ravioli

Fried Ravioli makes for a delicious appetizer or snack, perfect for gatherings and game days. These crispy bites can be paired with various dips and sides to enhance their flavor.

With Marinara Sauce

• A classic choice, marinara sauce offers a tangy tomato flavor that complements the cheesy filling perfectly.

With Garlic Aioli

• This creamy garlic sauce adds a rich and savory element, making each bite even more indulgent.

With Pesto

• Fresh basil pesto brings a burst of herbaceous flavor that pairs beautifully with the fried ravioli.

Topped with Parmesan

• Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan on top for an extra layer of cheesy goodness and visual appeal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and fresh taste that brightens up the dish.

How to Perfect Fried Ravioli

Achieving the perfect fried ravioli is all about technique. Follow these tips for crispy, golden results every time.

• Thaw Properly: Always thaw ravioli before frying to prevent any popping in hot oil, ensuring safety and better texture.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 325°F for optimal frying. This prevents sogginess and achieves that desired crispy exterior.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and greasy ravioli.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated parmesan and quality breadcrumbs elevate the flavor and texture of your fried ravioli.
• Drain Well: After frying, let the ravioli rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil, keeping them crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Fried Ravioli

Fried Ravioli pairs well with a variety of side dishes that can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A buttery, toasted bread infused with garlic complements the flavors of fried ravioli perfectly.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch alongside your rich appetizer.
3. Vegetable Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh veggies with dip provides a healthy contrast to the fried dish.
4. Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic offers a flavorful bite that pairs well with ravioli.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries introduce a sweet-savory combination that balances out the meal nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Fried Ravioli, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to be aware of:

• Skipping the Thawing Step: Frying frozen ravioli can lead to splattering oil and uneven cooking. Always thaw your ravioli before frying.
• Not Using Enough Oil: Insufficient oil can result in soggy ravioli instead of crispy ones. Make sure the ravioli are completely submerged while frying.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many ravioli at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to greasy results. Fry in small batches for best results.
• Ignoring Temperature Control: If the oil is too hot or too cold, your ravioli won’t cook properly. Use a thermometer and adjust the heat as needed.
• Neglecting to Drain Properly: Placing fried ravioli directly on a plate can make them soggy. Always place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow them to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Fried Ravioli

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Fried Ravioli

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for about 10-12 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may result in a softer texture.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fried Ravioli?

Fried Ravioli is a delicious appetizer made by breading cheese-filled ravioli and frying them until golden brown and crispy.

How do I make Fried Ravioli from scratch?

To make Fresh Fried Ravioli, you would need homemade pasta dough filled with cheese or meat, followed by breading and frying similar to this recipe.

Can I use different fillings for Fried Ravioli?

Absolutely! You can fill the ravioli with various ingredients like spinach, ricotta, or even seasoned chicken for added flavor.

What sauces pair well with Fried Ravioli?

Fried Ravioli tastes great with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli as dipping options.

Conclusion

Fried Ravioli is not only crispy and cheesy but also versatile for any occasion. You can customize it with different fillings or sauces to match your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try today!