Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe: Easy, Crispy, and Delicious
A lighter riff on a party snack, delivering golden exteriors and melty centers.
Introduction to Air Fryer Ravioli
Deep-fried ravioli—also known as “toasted ravioli”—is a staple appetizer in St. Louis, but now you can enjoy that same crispy, crunchy bite at home with far less mess and cleanup by using your air fryer. The Pioneer Woman’s air fryer ravioli recipe gives you all the satisfaction of classic fried ravioli but with a lighter touch, making it a win-win for both flavor and convenience.
Why Air Fryer Ravioli?
Air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food, resulting in a crispy exterior without the need for large amounts of oil. This method is not only healthier but also easier and less messy than traditional deep frying. The ravioli come out golden and crisp, with a gooey, melty center—just like those you’d get at a restaurant, but guilt-free and ready in minutes.
Choosing the Right Ravioli
For the best results, always use refrigerated ravioli rather than frozen. Refrigerated ravioli breads and cooks more evenly, resulting in a perfect balance of crunchy outside and tender inside. While cheese ravioli is a classic crowd-pleaser, you can experiment with different fillings, too. Just avoid frozen varieties, as they tend to become chewy and don’t crisp up as nicely.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a quick rundown of the simple ingredients required for this recipe:
- ¾ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 2 ounces), plus more for serving
- 1 tablespoon half-and-half
- 1 large egg
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese ravioli
- Cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- ½ cup marinara sauce, warmed
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create perfectly crispy air fryer ravioli every time:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F if it requires preheating.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. In another, beat together the half-and-half and egg.
- Coat the Ravioli: Dip each ravioli in the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks. Place each coated ravioli on a plate as you work.
- Spray for Crispiness: Generously spray both sides of the ravioli with cooking spray. This step is key for achieving a golden, crisp texture.
- Air Fry: Arrange the ravioli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary. Air fry for 5-6 minutes, then flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Sprinkle with parsley and extra Parmesan, and serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Pro Tips and Variations
Here are some expert tips and easy ways to customize your air fryer ravioli:
- Filling Variations: Try meat, spinach, or mushroom-filled ravioli for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, stick with cheese.
- Coating Options: Use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. For a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: While marinara is classic, pesto, Alfredo, or spicy arrabbiata sauce make great alternatives.
- For Extra Crispiness: Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave space between each ravioli for even air circulation and crisping.
Why This Beats Deep Frying
Traditional fried ravioli involves submerging the pasta in a bath of hot oil, which can be messy, greasy, and time-consuming. Air frying achieves similar results with just a spritz of oil, reducing calories and cleanup while maintaining maximum crispness and flavor. Plus, there’s no lingering smell of deep frying in your kitchen!
Serving Suggestions
Air fryer ravioli shines as a party appetizer, game day snack, or even a fun family dinner side. Pair with a crisp green salad for contrast, or serve alongside roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal. Don’t forget the extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for a finishing touch—and plenty of marinara sauce for dipping.
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Nutritional Notes
This recipe is a healthier take on the classic deep-fried version. By air frying, you significantly reduce the amount of oil absorbed by the ravioli, making for a lighter and fresher-tasting appetizer. Exact nutrition will vary depending on your ravioli brand and specific ingredients used, but in general, you can expect fewer calories and less fat than traditional fried ravioli.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen ravioli?
A: Stick with refrigerated ravioli for best results. Frozen ravioli can become too chewy and may not crisp up as nicely.
Q: How do I prevent the ravioli from sticking to the basket?
A: Always spray the ravioli generously with cooking spray before air frying, and make sure your air fryer basket is clean. If sticking is a persistent issue, you can line the basket with parchment paper cut to fit.
Q: Can I make them ahead of time?
A: For peak crispiness, serve air fryer ravioli immediately after cooking. If you must reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore their crunch.
Q: What dipping sauces work best?
A: Marinara is classic, but ranch, pesto, Alfredo, and even a spicy BBQ sauce can be great alternatives.
Q: Can I bake these if I don’t have an air fryer?
A: Yes! If you want to bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the coated ravioli for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown.
About The Recipe’s Origins
Arista, the author and food personality known as The Pioneer Woman, was inspired to recreate fried ravioli after enjoying them in St. Louis, Missouri. There, they are known as “toasted ravioli,” even though they are typically deep-fried. This recipe brings that favorite restaurant appetizer home in a far more accessible, less messy way.
Why Serve Air Fryer Ravioli at Parties?
Simple to assemble, quick to cook, and universally loved, these ravioli are ideal for gatherings. Guests will never guess how easy they were to make, and the golden, crispy texture is always a hit. Plus, the air fryer method means you can cook them in batches to keep the appetizers coming hot and fresh from the kitchen.
Conclusion: A New Classic Appetizer
Air fryer ravioli is a revelation: all the flavor and crunch you love, with less fuss and mess. Whether you’re hosting a party, cheering on your favorite team, or simply craving a snack, this recipe delivers crispy, golden perfection every time. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a regular in your rotation—after all, who can resist melty cheese encased in a crunchy crust, served with a side of tangy marinara?
Table: Air Fryer vs. Deep-Fried Ravioli
| Feature | Air Fryer Ravioli | Deep-Fried Ravioli |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Used | Minimal (cooking spray) | Several cups (for frying) |
| Crispiness | Golden and crisp | Golden and crisp |
| Cleanup | Easy, less grease | Messy, greasy stove |
| Preparation Time | Quick, under 20 minutes | Longer, oil must heat |
| Health Factor | Healthier, less oil absorbed | Higher in calories and fat |
Final Thoughts
This air fryer ravioli recipe from The Pioneer Woman is a must-try for anyone who craves a crispy, satisfying snack without the hassle of deep frying. It’s modern convenience meets classic comfort food—an ideal appetizer for any occasion. Give it a try, and your next gathering just might need a double batch!
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a63902795/air-fryer-ravioli-recipe/
- https://anaffairfromtheheart.com/air-fryer-toasted-ravioli/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g63395883/air-fryer-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g45862529/ravioli-recipes/
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