How to Make Perfect Toasted Ravioli: A Crispy, Comforting Classic
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
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a42029313/baked-ravioli-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a63902795/air-fryer-ravioli-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-fGNVIrfFs
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11602/toasted-ravioli/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g45862529/ravioli-recipes/
- https://www.eatyourbooks.com/library/recipes/1176188/toasted-ravioli
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