Transform your kitchen into an Italian eatery with this incredible Air Fryer Ravioli recipe, a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Imagine golden-brown, crispy pockets of cheesy goodness, effortlessly made in your air fryer in mere minutes. This recipe is your ticket to enjoying restaurant-quality toasted ravioli at home, without the mess and guilt of deep frying. Perfect as an exciting appetizer, a satisfying snack, or even a light main dish, these air-fried ravioli are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Their irresistible crunch and warm, gooey filling make them an instant favorite for both kids and adults, and they’re simply divine when dipped into your favorite marinara sauce.
Say goodbye to greasy stovetop frying and hello to a healthier, easier way to enjoy toasted ravioli. Our Air Fryer Ravioli recipe is the ultimate solution for preparing a delectable appetizer at home in as little as 20 minutes, completely eliminating the oil splatters and extensive cleanup typically associated with frying. These savory bites boast a perfectly crunchy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior, making them ideal for a side of vibrant marinara sauce, creamy ranch, or even a spicy arrabbiata. Whether you’re hosting a game night, planning a quick family meal, or simply craving a satisfying snack, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
If your heart beats for delicious ravioli creations, be sure to explore more of our delightful recipes. You might also love our Creamy Cheese and Spinach Ravioli for a comforting pasta dish, or indulge in the rich flavors of our Four Cheese Ravioli Pasta recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe
- Unbeatably Crispy: The magic of the air fryer lies in its ability to circulate hot air around the food, creating an exquisitely golden and crispy exterior on your ravioli. This achieves the coveted “fried” texture without the need for excessive oil, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
- A Lighter, Healthier Alternative: Traditional fried ravioli involves deep-frying, which can mean a significant amount of oil and calories. By using an air fryer, you drastically reduce the oil required, making this a much lighter and guilt-free option. Enjoy all the flavor and texture you love, with fewer calories and less fat.
- Incredibly Quick and Easy: Life is busy, and sometimes you need a delicious meal or snack that comes together in a flash. This recipe is designed for speed and simplicity, going from pantry to plate in just about 20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, spontaneous gatherings, or when you need to whip up something tasty without fuss.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re looking for an impressive appetizer to kick off a dinner party, a fun and easy snack for movie night, or a unique side dish to complement your main course, these air fryer ravioli fit the bill perfectly. Their universal appeal makes them suitable for a wide range of culinary situations.
- Minimal Cleanup: Forget the greasy pans and splattered countertops associated with deep frying. The air fryer contains the cooking process, making cleanup significantly easier and quicker, allowing you more time to enjoy your delicious creation.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting the perfect air fryer ravioli requires a few key ingredients, each playing a vital role in achieving that desirable crispy coating and savory flavor. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Cheese Ravioli: The star of our dish! You can use either fresh or frozen cheese ravioli. If using frozen, ensure they are slightly thawed to prevent excess moisture from making them soggy during the breading process. Cook them briefly according to package directions before breading to ensure a tender interior.
- Eggs (Beaten) & Water: This mixture forms the essential “egg wash.” It acts as a binder, creating a sticky surface that helps the breadcrumbs adhere firmly to the ravioli. A tablespoon or two of water helps thin out the egg, making for a smoother, more even coating.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These are crucial for superior crispiness! Panko breadcrumbs are flakier and lighter than regular breadcrumbs, absorbing less oil and yielding a remarkably crunchy texture when air-fried.
- Regular Breadcrumbs: While Panko offers crunch, regular breadcrumbs provide a finer texture and often a more substantial base for seasonings, ensuring a complete and flavorful coating.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Elevates the flavor profile of the breading mixture, adding a salty, umami-rich, and cheesy dimension that complements the ravioli perfectly. It also aids in achieving a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of classic Italian herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. This seasoning infuses the breading with an aromatic and authentic Italian flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a pungent, savory kick that enhances the overall taste without overwhelming the delicate cheese filling.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the breading mixture, bringing out all the flavors and ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced.
- Olive Oil Spray: A light mist of olive oil spray is key to achieving that golden, crispy finish in the air fryer. It helps the breading crisp up beautifully without drenching the ravioli in oil.
- Marinara Sauce: The quintessential dipping companion! Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara for a tangy, sweet, and savory counterpoint to the crispy ravioli.
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish): A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a touch of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to the finished dish, making it even more appealing.
A full, detailed recipe list with precise measurements can be found in the comprehensive recipe card below.
How To Make The Best Air Fryer Ravioli
Making crispy air fryer ravioli is surprisingly simple, requiring just a few straightforward steps to achieve appetizer perfection. Follow these instructions for a delicious outcome every time:
Step 1: Prepare the Ravioli. Begin by bringing a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add your fresh or thawed frozen ravioli to the boiling water and cook for approximately 2 minutes, or exactly according to the package instructions. The goal here is to partially cook them, ensuring they are tender inside but still firm enough to handle for breading. Once cooked, drain the ravioli thoroughly and gently spread them out on a plate lined with paper towels. Dab them lightly with extra paper towels to remove any excess moisture; this is a crucial step to ensure the breading sticks properly and achieves maximum crispiness.
Step 2: Set Up Breading Stations. In one shallow medium bowl, crack the eggs and add 2 tablespoons of water. Whisk vigorously with a fork until the eggs and water are well combined, creating a smooth egg wash. In a separate shallow medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are thoroughly mixed, forming an even and flavorful breading mixture. Arrange these two bowls, along with your cooked ravioli, in a convenient assembly line.
Step 3: Coat the Ravioli. Take each par-cooked ravioli and first dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off briefly. Immediately transfer the egg-coated ravioli to the breadcrumb mixture. Gently press and turn the ravioli to ensure it’s completely and evenly covered with the seasoned breadcrumbs. Place the breaded ravioli on a clean plate or baking sheet. Repeat this process for all remaining ravioli, ensuring each one has a generous and consistent coating.
Step 4: Preheat and Arrange. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (199°C) for at least 5 minutes. This preheating step is vital for ensuring even cooking and achieving that perfect crispy texture. Once the air fryer is preheated, lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Carefully arrange the breaded ravioli in a single layer within the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results. If necessary, cook in multiple batches. Lightly spray the tops of the arranged ravioli with cooking spray; this helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and enhanced crispiness.
Step 5: Air Fry to Golden Perfection. Cook the ravioli in the preheated air fryer for 8-10 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time (around 4-5 minutes), gently flip each ravioli to ensure both sides brown evenly and develop a consistent crispiness. Continue air frying until the ravioli are golden brown, visibly crispy, and the cheese filling is hot and gooey. The exact cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model, so keep an eye on them towards the end.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve Immediately. Once the ravioli are perfectly air-fried, carefully remove them from the basket. Transfer them to a serving platter and sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve these crispy delights immediately with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the irresistible combination of crunchy coating, tender pasta, and savory cheese!
Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Ravioli
- Always Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like a traditional oven, an air fryer needs to reach its target temperature before you add food. Preheating ensures that the ravioli starts cooking immediately and crisps up evenly, preventing a soggy texture. Give it at least 5 minutes to heat up thoroughly.
- Choose the Right Ravioli: While you can use both fresh or frozen ravioli, opt for a good quality brand for the best flavor. If using frozen, allow them to thaw slightly before par-cooking and breading. This helps prevent excess moisture and ensures even cooking.
- Prevent Sticking with Cooking Spray: A light coating of cooking spray on your air fryer basket is essential. This not only prevents the breaded ravioli from sticking but also aids in achieving that beautiful golden-brown crust. You can also lightly spray the tops of the breaded ravioli before frying.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Basket: Air fryers work by circulating hot air. If you overcrowd the basket, the air can’t circulate effectively, leading to unevenly cooked and steamed (rather than crispy) ravioli. Always cook in a single layer, even if it means doing multiple batches. Patience will be rewarded with superior crispiness.
- Flip for Even Crispiness: To ensure every side of your ravioli gets perfectly crispy and golden, remember to flip them halfway through the cooking time. This exposure to the direct heat and circulating air ensures a consistent crunch.
- Serve Immediately for Best Results: Air fryer ravioli is best enjoyed hot and fresh, straight from the air fryer. The crispy coating can soften over time, so gather your dipping sauces and serve them right away to experience them at their peak deliciousness.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to customize the breading mixture. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or dried oregano for more herbaceous notes. Taste and adjust to suit your preferences!
- Don’t Skip the Drying Step: After par-boiling, thoroughly patting the ravioli dry with paper towels is crucial. Any excess moisture will prevent the egg wash and breadcrumbs from adhering properly, leading to a less crispy result.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Ravioli
Air fryer ravioli are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes, whether you’re planning a full Italian feast or just need a simple accompaniment. For an authentic Italian appetizer spread, these delightful bites pair beautifully with other classics like crisp Feta Bruschetta, gooey mozzarella sticks, or savory Homemade Garlic Knots. If you’re looking to create a complete and satisfying meal, serve the crispy ravioli alongside a fresh, vibrant Simple House Salad, tossed in a zesty vinaigrette, or a healthy portion of Easy Mixed Vegetables. For dipping, while marinara is the classic choice, don’t hesitate to experiment with creamy ranch dressing, a spicy arrabbiata, or even a pesto aioli for an elevated flavor experience. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a dash of red pepper flakes can also add a wonderful finishing touch.
Storing, Reheating, and Freezing Instructions
Proper storage and reheating ensure you can enjoy your delicious air fryer ravioli for days to come. Follow these guidelines to maintain their best quality:
Storing Leftovers: If you have any cooled, leftover air fryer ravioli, place them in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture, it’s recommended to consume them sooner rather than later, as the crispiness tends to diminish over time in the fridge.
To Reheat for Optimal Crispiness: To bring back that desirable crispy texture, reheating in the air fryer is your best bet. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for five minutes. Once preheated, place the chilled ravioli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are thoroughly heated through and have regained their crispy exterior. Avoid reheating in a microwave, as this will make them soft and chewy.
Freezing for Future Enjoyment: You can prepare these ravioli in advance and freeze them un-fried for later. After breading the ravioli (before air frying), arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Ensure they are not touching to prevent them from sticking together. Freeze until solid, which usually takes 1-2 hours. Once frozen solid, transfer the ravioli to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to cook them, there’s no need to thaw! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the frozen ravioli for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until they are golden brown, crispy, and heated through. Keep in mind that cooking from frozen may require a slightly longer cooking time compared to cooking fresh or thawed ravioli.
Common Questions About Air Fryer Ravioli
Absolutely! Making this recipe gluten-free is straightforward. You will need to use gluten-free ravioli, making sure to follow the specific cooking instructions on its package, as cooking times can sometimes vary. Additionally, replace standard panko and regular breadcrumbs with their gluten-free counterparts, which are widely available in most grocery stores. Always double-check any seasoning blends you use to ensure they are also certified gluten-free, as some may contain hidden gluten ingredients.
Yes, you certainly can! If you don’t have an air fryer or prefer to use your oven, you can easily bake these ravioli. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded ravioli in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring there’s a little space between each piece to allow for even crisping. Lightly spray the tops of the ravioli with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
Marinara sauce is undoubtedly the classic and most popular choice for crispy ravioli, offering a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. However, feel free to experiment with other delicious options! Creamy ranch dressing provides a cool and savory contrast, while a spicy arrabbiata sauce can add a fantastic kick. Pesto aioli or a roasted red pepper dip also make excellent, more gourmet choices. Don’t be afraid to try a variety of dips to find your personal favorite!
Absolutely! While this recipe specifically highlights cheese ravioli, you can easily adapt it to use other varieties. Meat-filled, spinach and ricotta, or even mushroom ravioli would all work wonderfully. The key is to ensure they are par-cooked and thoroughly dried before breading, just like with cheese ravioli, to achieve that signature crispy texture.
For an extra boost of crispiness, ensure your air fryer is fully preheated and that you don’t overcrowd the basket. Cooking in smaller batches allows for better air circulation. A generous spray of olive oil or cooking spray before frying, and again when flipping, also helps achieve a deeper golden color and crunch. Using Panko breadcrumbs is already a great start, as they naturally crisp up more than regular breadcrumbs.
More Easy Appetizer Recipes to Try
If you loved the simplicity and deliciousness of these air fryer ravioli, you’re in for a treat! Here are more easy and crowd-pleasing appetizer recipes to explore for your next gathering or snack craving:
- Oven Shrimp Skewers
- Air Fryer Garlic Chicken Wings
- Roasted Cheesy Fingerling Potatoes
- Crispy Air Fryer French Fries
- Loaded Air Fryer Potato Skins
- Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
This Air Fryer Ravioli recipe is truly a game-changer – a quick, easy, and utterly delicious appetizer that brings Italian restaurant flair right into your home. With its perfectly crunchy breadcrumb coating and a tender, flavorful cheesy center, these bite-sized ravioli are irresistible. They’re ideal for dipping into warm marinara sauce, creamy ranch, or your favorite dressing, making them a versatile and beloved addition to any meal or gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe guarantees impressive results with minimal effort. Enjoy the perfect crisp every time!
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Air Fryer Ravioli
Ingredients
- 20 oz fresh/frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup regular bread crumbs
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Cooking spray
- Chopped fresh parsley, to garnish
- Marinara sauce, to serve
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook according to the package instructions for 2 minutes. Drain the water and set the ravioli aside. Use a paper towel to remove any moisture from the cooked ravioli, ensuring they are as dry as possible.
- In a medium bowl, combine the eggs and water, then whisk thoroughly with a fork until well mixed. Set this bowl aside as your egg wash station.
- In a separate medium bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined, creating your seasoned breading mixture. Set aside.
- Take each cooked ravioli, dip it into the egg mixture first, ensuring both sides are coated. Then, transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly and completely on all sides. Place the breaded ravioli on a clean plate and repeat with the remaining ravioli.
- Meanwhile, preheat your air fryer to 390°F (199°C) for 5 minutes. Once heated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Carefully place the breaded ravioli in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not overcrowd. Lightly spray the tops of the ravioli with cooking spray.
- Air fry the ravioli for 8-10 minutes. At the halfway point (around 4-5 minutes), open the air fryer and carefully flip each ravioli to ensure even browning and crispiness on both sides. Continue cooking until they are golden brown and perfectly crispy.
- Once done, remove the crispy ravioli from the air fryer. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your delicious, homemade air fryer ravioli!
Notes
- Pre-heat Air Fryer: Always allow your air fryer sufficient time to preheat before adding the ravioli. This step is crucial for achieving consistent cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Use Fresh or Thawed Ravioli: For optimal results, fresh ravioli is ideal. If using frozen, ensure they are slightly thawed before you begin the par-cooking and breading process to avoid excess moisture and ensure even cooking.
- Non-stick Spray is Key: To prevent any sticking and to encourage a beautiful golden crust, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray before placing the ravioli inside. A light spray on top of the breaded ravioli also helps.
- Do Not Overcrowd: Air fryers rely on circulating hot air. For truly crispy ravioli, arrange them in a single layer without overlapping. If necessary, cook in multiple batches to ensure proper air circulation and even crisping.
- Turn Over for Evenness: To ensure all sides of the ravioli become uniformly golden and crispy, remember to flip them halfway through the cooking time. This exposes both sides to the direct hot air.
- Serve Immediately: Air fryer ravioli is at its absolute best when served fresh and hot, straight from the air fryer. The crispy coating can soften as they cool, so gather your guests and enjoy them right away!
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 90g |
Protein: 32g |
Fat: 24g |
Saturated Fat: 8g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 2g |
Trans Fat: 0.01g |
Cholesterol: 169mg |
Sodium: 1696mg |
Potassium: 147mg |
Fiber: 6g |
Sugar: 6g |
Vitamin A: 204IU |
Vitamin C: 0.02mg |
Calcium: 266mg |
Iron: 18mg
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