How to Make Perfect Toasted Ravioli: A Crispy, Comforting Classic

A foolproof approach to crispy, flavorful pasta bites that elevates any gathering.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 16, 2025

A foolproof approach to crispy, flavorful pasta bites that elevates any gathering.

Toasted Ravioli: A St. Louis Classic with Crispy Italian Charm

Toasted ravioli is a beloved appetizer originating from St. Louis, Missouri. This irresistible dish features cheese- or meat-filled ravioli breaded and fried until golden and delightfully crispy. Traditionally served with warmed marinara sauce, toasted ravioli is a crowd-pleaser found at family gatherings, casual parties, and on the menus of Italian-American restaurants across the Midwest.

What Is Toasted Ravioli?

Despite the term “toasted,” these ravioli are actually deep-fried to a crispy finish. The process involves coating frozen ravioli in flour, an egg and cream mixture, and seasoned breadcrumbs, then frying them briefly in hot oil. The result: a crunchy exterior with a warm, tender, flavorful filling.

Why Try This Recipe?

Crunchy and Satisfying: Perfectly crisp with a creamy cheese or savory meat filling.
Easy Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and frozen ravioli for minimal prep.
Great for Entertaining: Serve as an appetizer, snack, or part of a game-day spread.
Customizable: Swap fillings, experiment with sauces, or bake/air fry for a lighter version.

Ingredients for Classic Toasted Ravioli

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Vegetable oil	4 cups	For frying; can substitute canola oil
Eggs	6 whole	Whisked with half-and-half
Half-and-half	1/2 cup	Or whole milk
All-purpose flour	2 cups	For dredging
Seasoned breadcrumbs	2 cups	Gives flavor and crunch
Frozen ravioli	24 pieces	Cheese or meat filled
Marinara sauce	2 cups	For dipping; jarred or homemade, heated
Shredded parmesan cheese	1/4 cup	Sprinkled on top
Minced fresh parsley	1 tbsp	Optional garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Oil:
Pour 4 cups of vegetable oil into a medium pot. Heat over medium-high until oil reaches 400°F (use a thermometer for accuracy).
Set Up Breading Station:
- Whisk eggs and half-and-half in a shallow dish.
- Place flour in a second dish.
- Pour seasoned breadcrumbs in a third dish.
Bread the Ravioli:
- Working with frozen ravioli, dip each piece in the egg mixture.
- Dredge in flour, coating all sides.
- Dip again in the egg mixture for better adhesion.
- Coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate.
Fry the Ravioli:
- Fry 3–4 pieces at a time, dropping them gently into hot oil.
- Fry for 1.5 to 2 minutes, watching closely as they brown quickly.
- Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel–lined plate.
- Repeat with remaining ravioli.
Serve & Garnish:
- Transfer fried ravioli to a platter.
- Sprinkle with shredded parmesan and parsley for flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve hot, with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

Pro Tips for Crispy, Golden Toasted Ravioli

Keep ravioli frozen until ready to bread and fry for best texture and to prevent overcooking the filling.
Double dredging (egg, flour, egg, breadcrumbs) ensures maximum crunch and helps coating stay put.
Monitor oil temperature: Too cool and ravioli absorb oil; too hot and they brown before the center is hot.
Work in small batches to prevent oil temperature drops and achieve even cooking.
Drain well on paper towels to keep them crispy.

Variations and Adaptations

Customize toasted ravioli to your taste or needs. Here are some creative ideas:

Different Fillings: Use spinach, mushroom, sausage, or even lobster- or pumpkin-filled ravioli.
Seasoned Coating: Add grated parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle with additional cheese after frying for extra richness.
Baked or Air-Fried Options: For a lighter version, bake in a 425°F oven for 12–15 minutes (spray with oil), or air fry at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Toasted ravioli shines as a party appetizer but can also be served as a main course with a side salad. Here are popular ways to enjoy them:

Classic: Served with warm marinara or tomato basil sauce for dipping.
With Alfredo: Offer a creamy Alfredo sauce for a decadent twist.
Party Platter: Arrange with olives, roasted veggies, and sliced Italian meats.
Game Day Snack: Pair with other finger foods like mozzarella sticks and crispy chicken wings.

Making Ahead & Storage Advice

Fry toasted ravioli just before serving for maximum crispness.
Breaded but unfried ravioli can be stored in the fridge, covered, up to 4 hours before frying.
Leftover fried ravioli can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat in a 400°F oven for about 8–10 minutes to restore crispness.

History of Toasted Ravioli

Toasted ravioli is most closely associated with St. Louis’s Italian-American community and especially the city’s famed The Hill neighborhood. Local legend has it that a cook at Oldani’s (now Mama Campisi’s) accidentally dropped ravioli into hot oil instead of water, creating the now-classic snack in the process. Since then, toasted ravioli has become a regional specialty and can be found across the Midwest and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

A: Yes, but work quickly and ensure the ravioli is well chilled so the filling does not burst before the coating crisps up. Frozen ravioli holds up better during frying.

Q: What oil is best for frying?

A: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for reliable, even frying.

Q: How do I keep toasted ravioli crispy?

A: Fry in small batches, let oil return to temperature between batches, and drain ravioli thoroughly on paper towels. Serve immediately for best texture.

Q: Can I freeze breaded ravioli for later?

A: Yes, after breading, arrange ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then store in a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen—do not thaw first.

Q: Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options?

A: Use cheese or veggie-filled ravioli for a vegetarian version. Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make it gluten-free. Always check ravioli labels for allergens.

Explore More: Other Ravioli Recipes

Baked Ravioli: Layer cooked ravioli with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan for a casserole-style comfort meal (see The Pioneer Woman’s easy baked ravioli recipe).
Air Fryer Ravioli: For a healthier crunch, coat ravioli in breadcrumbs and air fry until crisp.
Chocolate Fried Ravioli: For dessert, fill wonton wrappers with chocolate-ricotta and fry, then drizzle with melted chocolate and serve with berries.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a comforting treat, toasted ravioli delivers the perfect combination of crispiness, melty filling, and classic Italian flavor. With just a few basic steps and lots of room for creativity, you can bring this Midwest favorite to your own table—no trip to St. Louis required!

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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