Crispy Air Fryer Ravioli: Your Go-To Easy Cheesy Appetizer or Snack!
Cheesy, incredibly crispy, and undeniably addictive, these air fryer ravioli are a truly delicious appetizer or snack that will impress everyone! These golden-brown, crunchy bites are ready in a mere 20 minutes, making them the perfect, effortless addition to any gathering, from casual game nights to sophisticated holiday parties. For the ultimate flavor experience, serve them piping hot with a side of rich marinara sauce for dipping. They are easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to disappear fast – a true crowd-pleaser!
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About These Air Fryer Ravioli
Fried ravioli holds a special place in my heart, especially during tailgating season and throughout the bustling holidays. The rich, savory filling encased in a perfectly crisp shell is simply irresistible. However, the thought of wrestling with a large pot of hot oil for traditional deep-frying often deters me, particularly when time is short.
That’s where the air fryer becomes an absolute kitchen hero, transforming simple store-bought ravioli into incredibly crispy, golden-brown bites with minimal fuss and much less oil. This method offers all the satisfying crunch of traditional fried ravioli without the mess or guilt. It’s truly a game-changer for anyone craving this classic appetizer.
The beauty of this air fryer ravioli recipe lies in its simplicity. You just need some fresh, store-bought cheese ravioli – no judgment here, we’re all about making life easier and delicious! Each delicate pasta pillow is then coated in a simple yet flavorful breadcrumb mixture, packed with aromatic Italian herbs and spices. After a quick dredge, these breaded ravioli are popped into the air fryer, and in minutes, they emerge perfectly toasted. It’s a process so straightforward, I almost feel a pang of guilt when friends and family rave about how amazing they are. Almost!
What I adore most about these air fried ravioli is their incredible versatility. Planning a sophisticated dinner party? Arrange them beautifully on a platter with a dollop of marinara sauce on top, perhaps a sprinkle of fresh basil, for an elegant, bite-sized appetizer. Getting ready for the big game day? Serve them straight out of the air fryer basket with a generous side of your favorite dipping sauce, letting everyone grab their own cheesy, crunchy snack. Once you discover how simple and delicious these are, you’ll find yourself inventing excuses to make this toasted ravioli recipe all the time!
Whether you’re looking for a quick after-school snack, a unique party appetizer, or a fun addition to your weeknight meal, these easy air fryer ravioli fit the bill perfectly. They’re a fantastic alternative to traditional fried pasta, delivering maximum flavor and crunch with minimal effort.
Ingredients for Perfect Toasted Ravioli
Crafting these irresistible crispy ravioli in the air fryer requires a few simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect golden exterior and savory interior:
- Large Eggs: These are the critical binding agent, forming the necessary wet base for the breadcrumb mixture to adhere to the ravioli. Using large eggs ensures enough coating for a good batch.
- Italian Seasoned Bread Crumbs: For maximum flavor, we highly recommend Italian seasoned bread crumbs. They come pre-mixed with herbs like oregano, basil, and garlic, providing a convenient flavor boost. If you only have plain breadcrumbs, don’t worry – you can easily make your own Italian-seasoned version (see tips below!).
- Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: This ingredient is a non-negotiable for the best results! Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and provides a superior, nutty, salty flavor and texture compared to pre-grated varieties. It helps form an incredibly delicious, cheesy crust.
- Dried Herbs and Spices: A carefully selected blend of dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, and salt elevates the flavor profile. These spices infuse the breading with classic Italian tastes, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying.
- Fresh Cheese Ravioli: While other fillings can work, fresh cheese ravioli (such as ricotta or a blend of Italian cheeses) is ideal for this recipe. Its mild flavor allows the crispy coating and dipping sauce to shine. If using frozen ravioli, ensure they are fully thawed before proceeding to prevent uneven cooking and a soggy coating.
- Avocado Oil Spray: A light coating of oil spray is crucial for achieving that signature air-fried crispness and golden-brown color without excessive fat. Avocado oil is a great choice due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
- Flaky Sea Salt: A final sprinkle of flaky sea salt just after air frying enhances the flavors and adds a pleasant textural contrast to the crispy exterior.
- Freshly Chopped Basil: As a garnish, fresh basil not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also introduces a fresh, aromatic counterpoint to the rich ravioli and marinara.
- Tomato Marinara Sauce: The ultimate accompaniment for dipping! A good quality marinara sauce provides a tangy, sweet, and savory balance to the cheesy, crispy ravioli.
Essential Equipment for This Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe
Making these delightful air fryer toasted ravioli requires minimal specialized equipment, making it a truly accessible recipe for any home cook. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Set of Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two shallow bowls for the breading process – one for the whisked eggs and another for the breadcrumb mixture. A good set of stainless steel mixing bowls is always a kitchen essential, perfect for dredging and combining ingredients.
- Air Fryer: The star of this recipe! Any model of air fryer will work, whether it’s a basket-style or oven-style. If you’re in the market for one, the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer is a popular and versatile option. An air fryer circulates hot air to cook food, giving it a crispy, “fried” texture with very little oil, making it ideal for creating these perfectly toasted ravioli.
That’s it! With these basic items, you’re all set to create a batch of irresistible air fryer ravioli.
How to Make Air Fryer Ravioli: Step-by-Step Instructions
Getting these crispy air fryer ravioli from your kitchen to your plate is incredibly simple. Follow these straightforward steps for a delicious snack or appetizer:
Prepare the Ravioli for Air Frying
Preparation is key to achieving that perfect crunchy coating. Start by setting up your dredging station:
- Whisk Eggs: In a shallow small bowl, whisk the two large eggs until they are lightly beaten and uniform in consistency. This creates the sticky base for your breading.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate shallow bowl, stir together the Italian seasoned bread crumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, and salt. Make sure all the ingredients are thoroughly combined to ensure an even distribution of flavor.
- Coat Ravioli: Take each fresh ravioli and dip it first into the whisked egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, transfer the egg-coated ravioli to the bread crumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure both sides are fully and evenly coated. Place the breaded ravioli on a clean plate and repeat this process with the remaining ravioli. This methodical approach ensures a consistent, crispy crust for every piece.
Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Now for the magic! The air fryer will transform your breaded ravioli into crispy delights:
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial for achieving immediate crispness and even cooking.
- Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with avocado oil spray. This prevents sticking and helps in achieving that perfect golden crust.
- Arrange Ravioli: Carefully place the breaded ravioli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. It’s important not to overcrowd the basket, as this can lead to steaming instead of frying. You will likely need to work in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer. Once arranged, lightly spray the tops of the ravioli with cooking spray as well.
- Air Fry: Cook the ravioli for approximately 3 to 5 minutes per side, or until they turn beautifully golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as air fryer models can vary in cooking times. Flip them halfway through to ensure even browning.
Serve Your Crispy Toasted Ravioli
Once air fried, these crispy toasted ravioli are ready to be enjoyed immediately:
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the air fried ravioli warm. For an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle them with a pinch of flaky sea salt and freshly chopped basil. Don’t forget the essential accompaniment: a bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping!
Enjoy these cheesy, crispy, and utterly satisfying air fryer ravioli – they’re perfect for any occasion!
Tips and Tricks for the Best Air Fryer Ravioli
To ensure your air fryer ravioli turn out perfectly crispy and delicious every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: This is a simple but impactful tip! Freshly grated Parmesan cheese offers a significantly better texture and deeper, richer flavor than pre-grated varieties. It melts more smoothly into the breadcrumb coating, creating a more cohesive and delicious crust. While pre-grated cheese can work in a pinch, we highly recommend fresh for the absolute best results.
- Keep a Close Eye on Them! Air fryers are incredibly efficient, but cooking times can vary slightly between different brands and models. It’s crucial to monitor your ravioli closely, especially towards the end of the cooking process, to prevent them from overcooking or, in some cases, “exploding.” For our tests, they typically reached a perfect golden brown in 8 to 9 minutes total. If you notice the ravioli puffing up into distinct, round-ish bubbles, they are likely ready to be removed from the air fryer to avoid bursting and losing their cheesy filling.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For truly crispy air fried ravioli, it’s essential to cook them in a single layer without overlapping. Overcrowding reduces air circulation, leading to steamed instead of crispy ravioli. Work in batches if necessary; it’s worth the extra few minutes for superior results.
- Lightly Spray for Extra Crispness: After placing the breaded ravioli in the air fryer, give them another light spray of oil on top. This additional coating of oil helps achieve an even crispier and more uniformly golden-brown exterior.
- Experiment with Ravioli Fillings: While cheese ravioli is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other fresh ravioli fillings like mushroom, spinach and ricotta, or even meat-filled varieties. The breading process remains the same, offering a delightful twist on this popular appetizer.
- Ensure Ravioli are Dry Before Dredging: If your fresh ravioli are a bit moist from the package, gently pat them dry with a paper towel before dipping them in the egg. This helps the egg and breadcrumb coating adhere better, resulting in a crispier finish.
- Customize Your Seasoning: While our recipe uses a classic Italian seasoning blend, don’t hesitate to customize it! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or incorporate dried parsley, onion powder, or a hint of smoked paprika for different flavor profiles.
More easy air fryer recipes to make: Air Fryer Buffalo Jalapeno Poppers | Chipotle Air Fryer Empanadas | Air Fryer Scallops | Air Fryer Roasted Garlic Bread
Do I Need to Boil Ravioli Before Air Frying?
No, absolutely not! One of the fantastic advantages and time-saving aspects of this air fryer ravioli recipe is that there is absolutely no need to boil the ravioli before frying. You use fresh, uncooked ravioli straight from the package. The circulating hot air in the air fryer cooks the pasta through while simultaneously toasting the breadcrumb coating to a perfect crispness. This eliminates an extra step, reduces cooking time, and makes the whole process much simpler and more convenient. Just dredge, air fry, and enjoy!
Can Frozen Ravioli Be Air Fried Directly?
While fresh ravioli yields the best results for this recipe, you can use frozen ravioli with a crucial step. We generally do not recommend air frying frozen ravioli directly without thawing them first. The reason is that if you cook them from frozen, the exterior breadcrumb coating is likely to burn and become excessively crispy or even fall off before the inner pasta and filling have a chance to cook through properly. This results in unevenly cooked, undesirable toasted ravioli.
However, if frozen ravioli are your only option, you absolutely can use them! The key is to thaw them completely first. Transfer the frozen ravioli to the refrigerator and allow them to thaw overnight, or for several hours, until they are soft and pliable. Once thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture before proceeding with the egg wash and breadcrumb coating. This will ensure an even cook and a delicious, crispy exterior, just like using fresh ravioli.
Can I Make Air Fryer Ravioli Without Breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can certainly air fry ravioli without a traditional breadcrumb coating, offering a slightly different but still delicious texture and flavor profile. If you’re looking for how to air fry ravioli without breadcrumbs, here’s an easy alternative:
Instead of preparing the egg wash and breadcrumb mixture, simply toss your fresh (or thawed frozen) ravioli with a light drizzle of olive oil in a large bowl. Then, in a separate small bowl, stir together your preferred dried spices (like the basil, oregano, garlic powder, and salt from this recipe) with a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Add this seasoned Parmesan mixture to the olive oil-coated ravioli and toss well to ensure each piece is evenly coated. The cheese and spices will create a flavorful, savory crust.
When air frying these breadcrumb-free ravioli, you’ll want to adjust the cooking time slightly. Air fry them for about 5 to 7 minutes total, flipping halfway through, until they are lightly golden and heated through. While they won’t have the same robust crunch as breaded ravioli, they will still be deliciously crispy with a wonderful cheesy, savory exterior. This method is also a great option if you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative (just ensure your ravioli and Parmesan are gluten-free).
Using Regular Bread Crumbs for Toasted Ravioli?
Absolutely, you can use regular or plain bread crumbs for your toasted ravioli! While Italian seasoned bread crumbs offer convenience and a pre-made flavor profile, plain bread crumbs provide a fantastic canvas for your own seasoning blend. This allows you to customize the flavors precisely to your liking.
To convert regular bread crumbs into an Italian-seasoned version for this air fryer ravioli recipe, simply mix together 1 cup of plain bread crumbs with 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. You can also add a pinch more garlic powder, dried basil, or dried oregano to enhance the flavors further. You might even consider adding a touch of dried parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick. Voila! You’ve just created your own homemade Italian bread crumbs, perfect for these crispy air-fried delights.
Need some inspiration for appetizers? Check out my appetizer recipes page!
What to Serve with Your Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli
These crispy air fryer ravioli are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dips and complementary dishes to create a memorable culinary experience. Here are some of our favorite suggestions:
Dipping Sauces:
- Marinara Sauce: This is the classic, go-to pairing for any toasted ravioli. A warm, rich tomato marinara sauce provides a perfect tangy and sweet contrast to the savory, cheesy pasta. You can use your favorite store-bought brand or make your own homemade version.
- Ranch Dip: For a creamy, herbaceous alternative, a cool and zesty ranch dip is surprisingly delicious with these crispy bites. Its cool creaminess provides a nice balance to the warmth of the ravioli.
- Pesto Sauce: A vibrant pesto sauce, whether traditional basil pesto or a sun-dried tomato variation, adds a fresh, aromatic, and slightly nutty flavor.
- Garlic Aioli: For a more gourmet touch, a homemade or store-bought garlic aioli offers a rich, garlicky, and creamy dip that elevates the experience.
- Without a Dip: Don’t feel obligated to use a dip if you prefer! These air fried ravioli are so flavorful on their own, especially with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, that they can be enjoyed as a standalone snack.
Complementary Dishes:
Since ravioli naturally brings to mind Italian cuisine, I love to serve these toasted ravioli with dishes that complement their hearty, cheesy nature:
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast and balances the richness of the ravioli.
- Garlic Bread: You can even make Air Fryer Roasted Garlic Bread to stay in the theme!
- Antipasto Skewers: Offer a variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables on skewers for a well-rounded appetizer spread.
- Light Pasta Dish: If serving as part of a larger meal, a light pasta primavera or aglio e olio could work well, especially if the ravioli are a starter.
Drink Pairings:
To enhance the Italian vibe, consider pairing your crispy ravioli with an Italian-inspired cocktail or beverage:
- Limoncello Spritz: A tart and refreshing limoncello spritz is a perfect choice. Its bright citrus notes cut through the richness of the cheese, offering a wonderfully balanced experience.
- Aperol and Soda: A light and effervescent Aperol and soda (or Aperol Spritz) provides a slightly bitter, sweet, and bubbly accompaniment that is incredibly refreshing.
- Italian Red or White Wine: A light-bodied Chianti or a crisp Pinot Grigio would also be excellent choices for wine lovers.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these air fryer ravioli are sure to be a hit!
Storing and Reheating Air Fryer Ravioli
Making a batch of these delicious air fryer ravioli means you might have some leftovers (though they rarely last long!). Here’s how to properly store and reheat them to maintain their deliciousness and crisp texture:
Storing Leftovers:
Allow any leftover air fried ravioli to cool completely to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to sogginess. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. While they might lose a bit of their initial crispness during storage, they reheat beautifully!
Reheating for Best Results:
To bring your leftover ravioli back to their crispy glory, the air fryer is your best friend once again! Avoid using a microwave, as it will make them soft and chewy rather than crunchy.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange Ravioli: Place the refrigerated ravioli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You can give them another light spray of avocado oil if you want extra crispness.
- Air Fry: Cook for approximately 3 to 5 minutes, or until they are heated through and have regained their desired crispness. Flip them halfway through if needed.
With this simple reheating method, your leftover air fryer ravioli will taste almost as good as freshly made!
More Crispy Appetizers to Enjoy
If you love the satisfying crunch of these air fryer ravioli, you’re in for a treat with these other crispy appetizer ideas that are perfect for any occasion:
- Crispy smashed fingerling potatoes are not just a side dish! You can easily make them as an appetizer, served with a dollop of sour cream or a tangy aioli for dipping. Their irregular edges get perfectly golden and crisp.
- Cheese croquettes are the epitome of crispy on the outside and wonderfully cheesy on the inside. These decadent, bite-sized morsels are a sophisticated yet easy appetizer that always disappears fast.
- Crunchy crispy prosciutto is an incredibly simple and elegant snack or addition to your charcuterie board, ready in less than 15 minutes. It offers a salty, savory crunch that’s hard to resist.
- Prosciutto cheese twists come together in just 30 minutes and are SO much better than traditional breadsticks! These flaky, savory pastries are an excellent, impressive, and quick appetizer.
We hope you enjoy adding these fantastic crispy appetizers to your entertaining repertoire! Each one promises a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that will keep your guests coming back for more.
Finally, if you make this air fryer ravioli recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star rating on the recipe card below and/or leave a comment! Your feedback is incredibly valuable, and I truly love to hear when you all make my recipes. I make an effort to respond to every single comment, so please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or ask any questions you might have!
Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! It’s genuinely my favorite thing to see these recipes come to life in your homes – looking through those photos means the world to me!
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Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe Card
Equipment
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Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
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Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 10 oz fresh cheese ravioli or frozen, thawed
- Avocado oil spray
- Flaky sea salt
- Freshly chopped basil for garnish
- Tomato marinara sauce for serving
Instructions
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Preheat the air fryer to 400˚F (200°C).
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In a small shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs until lightly beaten. Set aside.
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In another shallow bowl, stir together the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, and salt until thoroughly combined.
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Dip each ravioli into the whisked egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat it thoroughly in the bread crumb mixture on both sides. Place the coated ravioli on a plate and repeat with the remaining ravioli.
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Lightly grease the air fryer basket with the oil spray. Arrange the ravioli in a single layer in the air fryer (you may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding). Spray the tops of the ravioli lightly with oil as well.
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Cook for approximately 3 to 5 minutes per side, for a total of 6-10 minutes, until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy. Monitor closely to prevent burning.
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Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly chopped basil for garnish.