If you love crispy, cheesy bites that bring a little Italian flair to your snack table, you are going to adore this Fried Ravioli with Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe. Imagine tender cheese ravioli that’s been lightly cooked, then coated in a crunchy, flavorful breadcrumb crust and fried to golden perfection. Paired with a rich, tangy marinara sauce, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into an irresistible appetizer that feels both elegant and comfortingly familiar. It’s the perfect party snack or starter that will have everyone reaching for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Fried Ravioli with Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe plays a crucial role in creating that unbeatable combination of texture and flavor. From the tangy buttermilk bath to the garlicky breadcrumb crust, these simple components come together beautifully.
- Refrigerated cheese ravioli (20 ounces): The star of the show, offering creamy, cheesy filling inside tender pasta pockets.
- Buttermilk (1 cup) or beaten eggs (2): Helps the breadcrumbs stick and adds a subtle tang for a richer coating.
- Italian-style breadcrumbs (1 1/2 cups): Create the golden, crispy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the soft ravioli inside.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a nutty, savory depth to the breadcrumb coating.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor into every bite.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a mild heat that balances the richness.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): The medium for achieving that perfect golden crust.
- Marinara sauce (1 1/2 cups): Your vibrant, tangy dipping companion that ties the dish together.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note as garnish.
- Extra grated Parmesan (for serving): Optional, but highly recommended for an extra cheesy finish.
How to Make Fried Ravioli with Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ravioli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the refrigerated ravioli for just 1 to 2 minutes—this softens them just enough so they stay tender after frying without overcooking. Drain carefully and pat each ravioli dry with paper towels, as removing excess moisture is key to achieving a crisp crust.
Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Stations
Pour the buttermilk (or beaten eggs) into one shallow bowl. In another bowl, combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper. This seasoned breadcrumb mixture is going to coat the ravioli, adding the delicious crunch and flavor that makes this Fried Ravioli with Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe so addictive.
Step 3: Coat the Ravioli
Dip each ravioli first into the buttermilk, making sure it’s fully coated. Then press it gently but firmly into the breadcrumb mixture until every side is well covered. It’s worth taking the time here to ensure the coating adheres evenly, so you get that satisfying crunch with every bite.
Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat about two inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy saucepan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the ravioli in small batches, about 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Using a slotted spoon, carefully transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat until all ravioli are perfectly crispy.
Step 5: Warm the Marinara Sauce
While you fry the last batch, warm the marinara sauce gently in a small saucepan or microwave. Serving the sauce warm makes that dipping experience even more comforting and flavorful.
How to Serve Fried Ravioli with Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle the fried ravioli with fresh chopped parsley and an extra dusting of grated Parmesan cheese to elevate the dish visually and taste-wise. The parsley adds a fresh herbal brightness, while the additional Parmesan boosts that cheesy, savory dimension we all crave.
Side Dishes
This Fried Ravioli with Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp mixed green salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread or a light Italian slaw to balance the richness with fresh or tangy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, arrange the fried ravioli skewered on cocktail sticks with small cups of marinara for a grab-and-go party appetizer. Another idea is to layer them over a bed of lightly dressed arugula and drizzle with balsamic glaze for an elevated presentation that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover fried ravioli, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the crispness, avoid sealing them while still warm or with moisture inside.
Freezing
You can freeze the breaded ravioli before frying by laying them in a single layer on a baking sheet and placing them in the freezer for about an hour. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready, fry them directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time slightly.
Reheating
To reheat leftover fried ravioli and keep them crispy, pop them in a hot oven or air fryer for a few minutes rather than microwaving. This helps restore their crunch without making them soggy, keeping your Fried Ravioli with Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe just as delicious as when freshly cooked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ravioli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw the frozen ravioli slightly and pat them dry before starting. The brief boiling and frying method works perfectly with frozen varieties as long as you ensure they’re dry to get that crisp crust.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No worries! Beaten eggs work just as well to help the breadcrumbs stick and add richness to the coating. You can even make a simple buttermilk substitute by mixing milk with a small amount of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes.
Can I bake or air fry the ravioli instead of frying?
Yes! For a lighter version of this Fried Ravioli with Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe, air fry the breaded ravioli at 400°F for about 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Baking is also possible but might not achieve quite the same level of crispiness.
What types of ravioli work best?
Cheese ravioli is classic for this recipe, but feel free to experiment with meat, spinach, or mushroom fillings. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly based on the filling’s thickness and moisture content.
How do I know when the oil temperature is right for frying?
The oil should be around 350°F (175°C) to achieve a golden, crispy finish without absorbing too much oil. Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer if you have one, or test with a small piece of breadcrumb—it should sizzle and turn golden quickly without smoking.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Ravioli with Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe is a delightful celebration of crispy textures and comforting Italian flavors that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting friends or craving a fun snack, it’s a dish that feels special yet approachable. Trust me, once you try it, fried ravioli will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. So grab your favorite ravioli, fire up the oil, and get ready for some seriously delicious dipping!
Print
Fried Ravioli with Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Golden and crispy fried cheese ravioli served with a rich marinara dipping sauce, perfect as a delicious appetizer or game day snack. This Italian-American favorite features tender ravioli coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture and fried to perfection, then garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (20-ounce) package refrigerated cheese ravioli
- 1 cup buttermilk (or 2 eggs, beaten)
- 1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying, about 2 inches deep)
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (for dipping)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Extra grated Parmesan (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the refrigerated cheese ravioli and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until they are slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain the ravioli and pat them dry carefully with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Prepare Dipping Stations: In one bowl, pour the buttermilk or beaten eggs. In a separate bowl, combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper. This will be the breadcrumb coating mixture.
- Coat the Ravioli: Dip each ravioli piece into the buttermilk or egg, allowing the excess to drip off, then dredge it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to ensure the coating adheres well to each ravioli.
- Heat the Oil: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to check the temperature for perfect frying results.
- Fry the Ravioli: Fry the breaded ravioli in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, cooking each side for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove each batch and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Warm the Marinara Sauce: While frying, gently warm the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat or microwave it until hot, ready for dipping.
- Serve: Arrange the fried ravioli on a serving plate, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with the warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For a lighter option, air fry the ravioli at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking.
- You can substitute cheese ravioli with meat or spinach ravioli for variety.
- This dish is ideal as an appetizer or a tasty snack for game day parties.
