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Crispy Fried Ravioli Recipe Easy Homemade Appetizers with Marinara Dip

crispy fried ravioli - featured image

Crispy fried ravioli with a crunchy coating and gooey cheese filling, served with a tangy homemade marinara dip. A quick and easy appetizer perfect for parties and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • About 20 pieces frozen cheese ravioli (recommend Rana or Stouffer’s)
  • Vegetable or canola oil for frying (neutral oils preferred)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (60g)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 ½ cups Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs (150g), preferably panko with dried oregano and basil
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (25g)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (about ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper mixed into breadcrumbs)
  • For the marinara dip:
  • 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes (240ml)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and a pinch of sugar to balance acidity

Instructions

  1. Prepare dredging stations: place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in a second bowl, and combine Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper in a third bowl.
  2. Thaw ravioli slightly by letting frozen ravioli sit at room temperature for 5-7 minutes.
  3. Coat ravioli by dredging each piece first in flour, shaking off excess, then dipping into beaten eggs, and finally coating thoroughly in breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to adhere crumbs. Place coated ravioli on a plate or tray.
  4. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain temperature.
  5. Fry ravioli in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels or wire rack.
  6. While frying, prepare marinara dip: heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat, sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, sugar, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Serve fried ravioli hot with warm marinara dip. Garnish with extra Parmesan or chopped fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to ensure crispiness and avoid sogginess. Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and season the coating well. You can bread ravioli ahead and freeze for frying later. Baking is a lighter alternative: bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Avoid microwaving leftovers to keep crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: fried ravioli, crispy ravioli, homemade appetizers, marinara dip, easy appetizer, party food, Italian appetizer