Ah, fried ravioli! Just saying it makes my heart flutter with joy! There’s something irresistibly delightful about biting into those crispy, golden pockets filled with warm, cheesy goodness. This dish brings back so many wonderful memories of family gatherings and festive dinners. My aunt used to whip up a batch for our holiday parties, and I can still taste that crunchy outside paired with the gooey cheese inside. Trust me, if you love Italian comfort food, you’re in for a real treat with this recipe!
What makes fried ravioli even better is not only how easy they are to make but also how customizable they can be. You can fill them with cheese, meat, or even veggies — the options are endless! And then there’s the herb-infused breadcrumbs that give them that extra crunch. Plus, they’re usually served with marinara sauce for dipping, which just takes them to a whole new level. So, let’s dive into how we can recreate this deliciousness together!
What’s in Fried Ravioli?
Ravioli: The star of our dish! You can use store-bought cheese ravioli, or if you’re feeling ambitious, make your own from scratch! I usually opt for a good-quality frozen cheese ravioli as it saves time without compromising flavor.
Breadcrumbs: The secret to that lovely crunch! I prefer using Italian-style breadcrumbs because they pack a delicious flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Eggs: These act as the binding agent, helping the breadcrumbs adhere to the ravioli. I usually use large eggs, but medium works too if that’s what you have on hand.
Seasonings: Simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder make all the difference. Feel free to throw in some Italian seasoning for an extra flavor kick!
Marinara Sauce: The perfect dipping companion! I love a store-bought marinara with fresh herbs, but homemade is the way to go if you have the time.
Is Fried Ravioli Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health aspect, shall we? Fried ravioli, in moderation, can definitely be enjoyed as a tasty treat!
Ravioli: Cheese ravioli does provide some protein and carbohydrates, but if you’re concerned about calorie intake, consider opting for whole wheat or vegetable-based ravioli.
Breadcrumbs: If you’re keeping an eye on carbs, you can swap regular breadcrumbs for crushed nuts or even ground up cauliflower as a healthier alternative.
Marinara Sauce: Sauce adds flavor along with some vitamins, especially if you choose one packed with real tomatoes.
The biggest consideration here is the frying. While deep-frying gives that yummy crunch, it does add calories and fat. You can also bake them for a lighter version, but let’s be real, sometimes you just want that crispy fried goodness!
Ingredients List
– 1 package of cheese ravioli (about 12-16 oz, fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup of breadcrumbs (Italian-style preferred)
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Marinara sauce, for dipping
– Oil for frying (vegetable or canola work best)
This recipe serves about 4 as an appetizer or snack, but I won’t judge if you eat more on your own!
How to Make Fried Ravioli?
1. Start by cooking the ravioli according to the package instructions. If you’re using fresh ravioli, boil them for 3-4 minutes or until they float. Drain and let them cool for a bit.
2. In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs with a fork and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. In another bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and a little more salt and pepper.
4. Dip each ravioli into the beaten egg, making sure it’s well coated, and then transfer to the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the ravioli to make sure they stick evenly.
5. In a frying pan, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot (you can test by dropping a breadcrumb in; if it sizzles, it’s ready), start adding the ravioli in batches.
6. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every crunchy, cheesy bite!
Sizzle & Crunch Tips for Perfect Fried Ravioli
– Don’t overcrowd the frying pan! It can lower the oil’s temperature too much, leading to soggy ravioli instead of that lovely crunch we want.
– If you want to make it vegetarian, stick to cheese or spinach ravioli. I’ve also tried butternut squash ravioli, and it’s delightful!
– Feeling adventurous? Try adding some fresh herbs in the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
– Keep an eye on your frying time. Once they’re golden brown, get them out! Nobody likes burnt ravioli.
You’ve got to try making these fried ravioli; they’re perfect for family movie nights, game day snacking, or just when you want to indulge a little. It would mean the world to me if you let me know how your batch turns out. I can’t wait to hear about your crispy creations!
