If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s addictive, golden, and full of cheesy comfort, Crispy Pan Fried Ravioli is absolutely irresistible. Imagine pillowy cheese ravioli coated in a savory, crunchy crust, paired with a warm, tangy marinara sauce—the combination hits every note, from salty and cheesy to crispy and tender. This easy Italian-American snack is weeknight-friendly and party-perfect, all while bringing a cozy, homemade feel to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe truly shines, providing balance in flavor, texture, and that signature crispy bite. Using staples you likely have on hand, every element does its part to transform simple ravioli into a plate of Crispy Pan Fried Ravioli that disappears fast!
- Frozen cheese ravioli: The heart of the dish—plush, creamy cheese in a tender pasta shell, ready for a crunchy upgrade.
- Italian seasoned breadcrumbs: These add flavor-packed crunch and a beautiful, golden color when fried.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses each bite with a nutty, salty richness that’s classic to Italian snacks.
- Large eggs: The magic glue that helps the crispy layer stick for maximum crunch with every bite.
- Water: Loosens the eggs to make dipping ravioli a breeze (no gloopy mess here!).
- All-purpose flour: The essential first coat, ensuring the breading grabs onto every surface of the ravioli.
- Garlic powder: Brings bold, aromatic flavor without overpowering the rest of the ingredients.
- Dried Italian seasoning: A classic herb blend that turns the breading into a flavor bomb.
- Salt and pepper: For essential seasoning that keeps the flavors balanced and lively.
- Olive oil for frying: Creates the beautiful crust, infusing a touch of fruity flavor and Italian flair.
- Marinara sauce for serving: The tangy-sweet dip for that perfect final touch of saucy goodness.
How to Make Crispy Pan Fried Ravioli
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Ravioli
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in the frozen cheese ravioli, giving them a quick gentle stir to prevent sticking. Cook as directed—usually about 3 to 4 minutes—until they’re just tender and begin to float. You’re not aiming for fully soft here; slightly undercooked is ideal since they’ll finish cooking in the pan. Drain them well and lay them out on paper towels, pressing gently to remove any excess water. This keeps your ravioli ultra crispy later on.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
It’s time to become a breading boss for your Crispy Pan Fried Ravioli! Arrange three shallow bowls side by side. In the first, heap in all-purpose flour for that essential dry coating. In the second, whisk together the eggs and water until smooth—it’ll help the breadcrumb layer stick perfectly. In the third, mix the Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. The aroma already hints at the crispy, flavorful shell on the horizon!
Step 3: Dredge the Ravioli
One by one, dip each ravioli into flour, tapping off extra, then dunk into the egg wash. Let any excess drizzle back into the bowl before rolling the ravioli in the breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing so every nook and cranny is coated. Want that super satisfying double crunch? Don’t be shy—repeat the egg and breadcrumb dip once more before frying. Stack the coated ravioli on a plate, ready for the sizzle.
Step 4: Pan Fry to Golden Perfection
Pour olive oil into a large skillet and heat over medium. To test readiness, sprinkle a breadcrumb in—if it sizzles instantly, you’re set! Working in batches, add the breaded ravioli, being careful not to crowd the pan. Fry each for 2 to 3 minutes per side, flipping gently, until gorgeously golden. Transfer the fried ravioli onto fresh paper towels to drain off any extra oil and stay crisp.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
With the entire batch shimmering and golden, transfer the Crispy Pan Fried Ravioli to a platter. Warm up your favorite marinara sauce for dipping. Serve immediately to guarantee prime crunch and cheesy goodness in every bite!
How to Serve Crispy Pan Fried Ravioli
Garnishes
For that irresistible finishing touch, sprinkle hot Crispy Pan Fried Ravioli with a handful of fresh Parmesan and a shower of finely chopped fresh parsley or basil. A quick grind of black pepper or a dash of red pepper flakes will make the flavors pop and give your platter that professional, restaurant-style look!
Side Dishes
This dish shines as both a starter and a hearty snack, but it pairs beautifully with a light salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette or a platter of crisp roasted vegetables. For an even more indulgent spread, serve alongside garlic bread or antipasto skewers for a fully Italian-American feast that your guests will rave about.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Crispy Pan Fried Ravioli into the star of your next gathering by threading them onto skewers for easy dipping, or serve them bite-size on a tray with individual sauce cups. Stack in a rustic basket lined with parchment paper for a casual movie night treat, or build a playful “ravioli tower” for an interactive dinner party centerpiece. The possibilities are as fun as they are delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Crispy Pan Fried Ravioli (a rare occurrence!), cool them down completely before refrigerating. Store in an airtight container with paper towels between layers to keep them from getting soggy. Enjoy within two to three days for best texture and flavor.
Freezing
Crispy Pan Fried Ravioli freeze surprisingly well. After frying and cooling, spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months, making it easy to enjoy hot, crunchy ravioli anytime your cravings strike.
Reheating
To recapture that fresh-from-the-skillet crispiness, reheat leftover ravioli in a 375°F oven or toaster oven for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Skip the microwave—while quick, it softens the crust rather than reviving that craveable crunch!
FAQs
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh ravioli work just as well as frozen—just reduce the initial boiling time slightly, as fresh pasta needs less cooking before breading and frying.
What dipping sauces work best if I don’t have marinara?
Besides classic marinara, try ranch, garlic aioli, pesto, or even a creamy Alfredo for a decadent twist. Each brings a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheesy crunch of Crispy Pan Fried Ravioli.
Will the breading stick if I skip the flour step?
The flour step helps the egg stick, which in turn allows the breadcrumbs to cling well. If you skip it, you might end up with patchy spots in your crust, so for best results, keep all three steps!
Is it possible to bake instead of fry the ravioli?
Yes, you can bake them! Arrange breaded ravioli on a lined baking sheet, spray with cooking oil, and bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping once. The result is still crisp, though nothing beats the golden crunch from pan-frying!
How do I keep Crispy Pan Fried Ravioli warm for a party?
Place finished ravioli on a wire rack set over a baking sheet in a low (200°F) oven. This will keep them hot and crisp for up to 30 minutes while you finish frying the rest or until guests arrive.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Pan Fried Ravioli is pure comfort with a playful twist, and making them at home guarantees you’ll wow your friends and family with a platter full of crunchy, cheesy joy. My biggest advice? Make a double batch—these irresistible bites always vanish in a flash. Treat yourself to a taste of Italian-American fun in your own kitchen tonight!
Print
Crispy Pan Fried Ravioli Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy delicious Crispy Pan Fried Ravioli as a delightful appetizer or snack. These golden brown, crunchy treats are perfect for sharing or indulging on your own.
Ingredients
Ravioli:
- 1 (9-ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli
Breadcrumb Mixture:
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Coating:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
For Frying:
- ½ cup olive oil
For Serving:
- Marinara sauce
Instructions
- Boil Ravioli: Cook ravioli in boiling salted water until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and pat dry.
- Prepare Coating: Whisk eggs and water in a bowl. Combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in another bowl. Place flour in a separate bowl.
- Coat Ravioli: Dredge ravioli in flour, then dip in egg mixture, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Fry: Fry coated ravioli in olive oil until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Serve: Drain on paper towels and serve hot with marinara sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double coat the ravioli before frying.
- You can use fresh or frozen ravioli.
- Adjust seasoning to taste in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Pan Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 ravioli
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
