Crispy Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe with Easy Marinara Dipping Sauce

I remember the exact night this crispy air fryer ravioli with marinara dipping sauce became my go-to comfort snack. It was one of those evenings when I was craving something indulgent but didn’t want to spend forever in the kitchen or deal with a greasy mess. Honestly, I was half-skeptical about using the air fryer for ravioli—fried pasta sounded odd, right? But the idea stuck with me after a friend texted me a quick photo of her golden, crunchy ravioli bites, raving about how easy and good they were. I figured, why not give it a shot?

So there I was, poking at frozen ravioli, tossing them in a little oil, and firing up the air fryer. The kitchen filled with this toasty aroma that felt like a cozy Italian trattoria, minus the fuss. When I bit into that first crispy, cheesy pocket paired with the tangy marinara, I was honestly surprised—this simple snack felt like a little celebration. It became my quick fix for lazy evenings or when friends dropped by unexpectedly, and now it’s one of those recipes I trust to deliver every single time without any drama.

What stuck with me the most is how this recipe manages to feel both casual and a bit special. It’s not just fried pasta; it’s crispy, cheesy, and perfectly saucy in a way that makes you want to close your eyes and savor each bite. And the best part? It’s easy enough to whip up without breaking a sweat. That’s why I keep making it, week after week, no matter how busy life gets.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying snack or last-minute appetizer.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses frozen ravioli and pantry staples, so no fancy shopping trips needed.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s game night, casual dinners, or unexpected guests, this crispy ravioli is a crowd-pleaser.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about the crispy texture and gooey filling.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The contrast between the crunchy exterior and melty center, plus the tangy marinara, hits every comfort food note.
• What Makes It Different: Instead of deep-frying, the air fryer crisps the ravioli evenly without soaking up excess oil, giving you that perfect crunch with less mess and calories.
• Emotional Connection: It’s that snack that turns a hectic night into a cozy moment, bringing a little joy in every bite.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most of these are pantry staples, and the frozen ravioli keeps things quick and easy.

• Frozen Cheese Ravioli: About 12 ounces (340 g) – I prefer brands like Rana or Barilla for their firm texture that crisps nicely.
• Olive Oil Spray or Light Olive Oil: 1-2 tablespoons – helps achieve that golden crunch without greasy residue.
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon – a blend of dried oregano, basil, and thyme adds subtle herbiness.
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon – for a gentle savory kick.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste – enhances all the flavors naturally.
• Marinara Sauce: 1 cup (240 ml) – homemade or store-bought, I trust Muir Glen for its fresh, vibrant tomato flavor.
• Fresh Basil (optional): A few leaves for garnish, if you want a fresh herbal touch.

Substitution tip: For gluten-free, use a frozen gluten-free ravioli alternative. You can swap the marinara for a spicy arrabbiata sauce if you like a little heat.

Equipment Needed

• Air Fryer: Essential for getting that crispy texture without deep frying. I use a 5.8-quart model, but smaller ones work fine—just cook in batches.
• Mixing Bowl: To toss the ravioli with oil and seasonings.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: For safely turning ravioli halfway through cooking.
• Small Saucepan: To warm the marinara dipping sauce gently.
• Optional: A silicone brush to lightly oil the ravioli if you don’t have spray oil.

If you don’t have an air fryer, a convection oven can work, but the crispiness won’t be quite the same. Also, cleaning the air fryer basket right after cooking helps keep it in good shape—little trick I’ve learned to avoid stuck-on cheese bits!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step is key for even cooking and crispiness.
2. Toss the frozen ravioli in a mixing bowl with olive oil spray or 1-2 tablespoons of light olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is coated evenly but not drenched (about 1-2 minutes of tossing).
3. Arrange the ravioli in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them; they need space to crisp up properly. You might need to cook in two batches depending on your air fryer size.
4. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking or flipping the ravioli halfway through with tongs. They should turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them around the 7-minute mark to avoid burning.
5. While the ravioli cooks, warm the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This usually takes 5 minutes.
6. Once the ravioli are crisped to perfection, transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh basil if you like.
7. Serve immediately with the warm marinara dipping sauce on the side.

Pro tip: If your ravioli are sticking together, gently separate them before cooking. Also, make sure the ravioli are fully frozen—not thawed—to get that perfect crunch.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

One thing I’ve learned is that the air fryer loves space. Overcrowding leads to soggy or unevenly cooked ravioli. Tossing them well with oil and seasoning before air frying is crucial—don’t skip it or they’ll be bland.

Another tip: flipping the ravioli halfway through cooking isn’t just a suggestion; it really helps each side get that golden crisp. I usually use tongs for this, and it’s easier than you’d think.

Don’t underestimate the power of a good marinara. A sauce that’s too watery can make the crispy ravioli limp. I keep a thick, well-seasoned marinara on hand or simmer a quick batch with garlic and fresh herbs. It makes all the difference.

One time, I left the ravioli in too long, and they started to blacken on the edges—lesson learned! Set a kitchen timer and check early if it’s your first try.

Lastly, if you want to save time, you can prep the ravioli and sauce ahead of time. Then just pop the ravioli in the air fryer and warm the sauce when you’re ready to eat.

Variations & Adaptations

• Protein Boost: Try stuffing fresh ravioli with spinach and ricotta or meat-filled varieties for a heartier snack.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix or swap marinara for a spicy arrabbiata sauce for more heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free ravioli and double-check your marinara sauce for gluten ingredients.
• Dipping Sauce Alternatives: Pesto or a creamy garlic aioli work as delicious dips if you want to switch things up.
• Cooking Methods: If you don’t have an air fryer, bake ravioli at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined sheet for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Personally, I once swapped the marinara for a roasted red pepper sauce and it brought a smoky sweetness that was unexpected but amazing. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these crispy ravioli hot and fresh straight from the air fryer. They’re best enjoyed immediately—the contrast between that crunchy shell and melty inside is unbeatable when warm.

Pair them with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon really complements the flavors nicely.

To store leftovers, let the ravioli cool completely, then place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to bring back the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make them soggy.

Flavors tend to mellow overnight, so the marinara can taste even richer the next day. Just reheat gently and enjoy.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This crispy air fryer ravioli recipe is a lighter take on fried snacks since it uses minimal oil. Each serving (about 6 ravioli) contains roughly 250-300 calories, depending on the ravioli type and oil used.

Cheese ravioli provides a good source of calcium and protein, while the marinara adds antioxidants from tomatoes. Using the air fryer reduces fat content compared to traditional frying.

If you choose whole wheat or gluten-free ravioli, you can cater to specific dietary needs. Just watch for allergens like dairy and wheat in the ravioli filling.

As someone who tries to balance indulgence with wellness, this recipe hits the spot without feeling heavy or overdone.

Conclusion

This crispy air fryer ravioli with marinara dipping sauce recipe is one of those simple wins that turns a casual snack into a little celebration. It’s fast, fuss-free, and hits all those crave-worthy notes with its crunch and cheesy goodness.

Feel free to tweak the seasoning, swap sauces, or try different ravioli fillings to make it your own. I love this recipe because it’s forgiving, friendly, and always delivers that satisfying comfort food vibe without the mess.

Give it a try next time you want a quick, tasty bite that feels special, and don’t forget to share how you make it your own. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Fresh ravioli can work but they’re more delicate and might not crisp up as well. If using fresh, reduce cooking time and watch carefully to avoid overcooking.

What type of marinara sauce is best for dipping?

A thick, well-seasoned marinara is best. Store-bought brands like Muir Glen or Rao’s are great, or you can simmer your own with garlic and herbs for extra flavor.

How do I prevent ravioli from sticking together in the air fryer?

Make sure to toss them in oil and seasonings separately before cooking and arrange them in a single layer with space between pieces. Shake the basket or flip halfway through cooking.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use vegan cheese ravioli and a marinara sauce without animal products. Check labels carefully to ensure all ingredients are plant-based.

Is the air fryer the only way to cook crispy ravioli?

No, you can bake them in a hot oven (around 400°F/200°C) on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. The air fryer just makes the process quicker and crisper.

Print