Go Back
Toasted ravioli, often referred to as "fried ravioli," has a rich history that traces its roots back to Italian-American cuisine. This dish is believed to have originated in the early 1940s in St. Louis, where Italian immigrants wanted to create a unique appetizer that showcased their culinary traditions. The concept involves taking fresh ravioli, breading it, and then frying it until golden and crispy, resulting in a delicious snack that captures the essence of Italian comfort food.

Crispy Toasted Ravioli Bites

Crispy toasted ravioli bites are a delicious appetizer that's perfect for any occasion! Originating from St. Louis, these savory treats feature a crunchy exterior that encases a flavorful filling, making them irresistible. With versatile options like cheese or meat fillings, they cater to various tastes. Easy to prepare, they can be baked or fried and served with marinara sauce for dipping. Impress your friends and family with this delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite at gatherings!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 package (9 oz) of refrigerated cheese or meat-filled ravioli

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

    Prepare the Coating Stations: Set up an assembly line of three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, pour in the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them together until fully blended. In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese until evenly combined.

      Coat the Ravioli: Take one ravioli at a time and start the coating process. First, dredge it in the flour, ensuring to shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured ravioli into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip back into the bowl. Finally, coat the ravioli in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to adhere the crumbs. Place the well-coated ravioli onto the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spread out to allow for even cooking.

        Bake the Ravioli: After all the ravioli have been coated, give them a light spritz of cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. This step is crucial for achieving a golden-brown, crispy texture. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the ravioli are golden and crispy, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning.

          Serve: Once baked, remove the crispy toast ravioli from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes on the baking sheet. Serve them warm, paired with a side of marinara sauce for dipping – perfect for a delightful appetizer or snack!

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 40 min | 4 servings

              - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the ravioli bites on a rustic wooden board or a colorful platter. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color, and place the marinara sauce in a small bowl in the center for a beautiful display.