Toasted ravioli is a beloved appetizer originating from St. Louis, Missouri. These deliciously crispy, golden-brown pockets of pasta are filled with a savory meat or cheese filling and are typically served with marinara sauce for dipping. Whether you’re preparing for a party, a family dinner, or simply looking to try something new, toasted ravioli is sure to be a hit. In this detailed recipe, we’ll walk you through each step of making perfectly toasted ravioli from scratch, ensuring you achieve a restaurant-quality dish right at home.
Ingredients for Toasted Ravioli:
- 1 package (about 12 ounces) refrigerated or frozen cheese or meat ravioli
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Marinara sauce, for serving
How to Make Toasted Ravioli:
- Prepare the Ravioli:
If using frozen ravioli, allow them to thaw according to package instructions. If using refrigerated ravioli, you can proceed directly to the next step. - Set Up the Breading Station:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. In another shallow bowl, combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. - Bread the Ravioli:
Dip each ravioli into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat the ravioli in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well to both sides. Place the breaded ravioli on a plate or baking sheet and repeat with the remaining ravioli. - Heat the Oil:
In a large, deep skillet or pot, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the ravioli when frying (about 2 inches deep). Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles and turns golden brown within a few seconds, the oil is ready. - Fry the Ravioli:
Carefully add a few ravioli to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry the ravioli for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the ravioli from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining ravioli. - Serve:
Arrange the toasted ravioli on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Ravioli: The star of this dish, ravioli are a type of pasta filled with a variety of fillings such as cheese, meat, or vegetables. For this recipe, either cheese or meat-filled ravioli work well, depending on your preference. Using store-bought ravioli saves time and ensures consistent results, but homemade ravioli can also be used for an extra special touch.
- Italian-Style Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs are pre-seasoned with Italian herbs and spices, adding extra flavor to the toasted ravioli. If you only have plain breadcrumbs on hand, you can easily season them yourself by adding dried herbs like oregano, basil, and parsley, along with a bit of garlic and onion powder.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory, nutty flavor to the breadcrumb coating. It also helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the ravioli and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Eggs and Milk: The egg and milk mixture acts as a binder, helping the breadcrumbs stick to the ravioli. This step ensures that each ravioli is evenly coated and will fry up to a perfect golden brown.
- Vegetable Oil: A neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil, is ideal for frying. It ensures that the ravioli fry evenly without imparting any unwanted flavors. Maintaining the oil at the correct temperature is key to achieving crispy, non-greasy ravioli.
- Marinara Sauce: This classic tomato-based sauce is the perfect accompaniment to toasted ravioli. Its tangy, savory flavor complements the rich, crispy ravioli, creating a delicious balance of tastes.
Toasted ravioli is a versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer that can be enjoyed at any gathering. The crispy exterior and flavorful filling make it an irresistible dish that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you serve it as a starter, a party snack, or a fun dinner option, toasted ravioli is always a hit. By following this detailed recipe, you’ll be able to create perfectly toasted ravioli that are just as delicious as those from your favorite Italian restaurant. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your family and friends!
