Little Bites, Big Flavor: Crispy Fried Ravioli with Marinara!

  

Who says pasta has to be the main course? Get ready to rethink your appetizer game with this absolutely delicious and surprisingly easy recipe for Crispy Fried Ravioli! Think of them as tiny, cheesy, golden pockets of joy, perfect for dipping into your favorite marinara sauce.

This appetizer is a total crowd-pleaser, whether you're hosting a casual get-together, a game day party, or just looking for a fun snack for the family. The golden, crunchy exterior gives way to a warm, cheesy center – it's pure bliss!

Why you'll love this recipe:

• Irresistibly Crispy: That golden-brown crust is addictive!
• Cheesy Center: Warm, melted cheese (or whatever filling your ravioli has!)
• Easy & Quick: Comes together faster than you might think.
• Perfect for Dipping: Marinara is classic, but get creative with other sauces!
• Kid-Friendly: A fun way to enjoy pasta for little ones (and big ones!).

Yields: 4-6 servings (about 20-25 ravioli) Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 10-15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 (9-ounce) package fresh or frozen cheese ravioli (do not thaw if frozen)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (Italian-style works great!)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Vegetable oil or canola oil for frying (about 3-4 cups, enough to fill a few inches in your pan)
• Marinara sauce, warmed, for dipping
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Set Up Breading Station: Prepare your breading station with three shallow dishes:
• Dish 1: Flour
• Dish 2: Beaten egg mixture
• Dish 3: Seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Bread the Ravioli: Working in batches, dredge each ravioli first in the flour (shaking off excess), then dip into the egg wash (letting excess drip off), and finally coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place the breaded ravioli on a wire rack or baking sheet.
3. Chill (Optional but Recommended): For best results and to help the breading stick, place the breaded ravioli in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes. This helps prevent the breading from falling off during frying.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet, pour enough oil to reach about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, a pinch of breadcrumb should sizzle immediately when dropped in.
5. Fry the Ravioli: Carefully add the breaded ravioli to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
6. Drain: Using a slotted spoon or spider, transfer the fried ravioli to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve: Arrange the hot, crispy fried ravioli on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping!

Tips for Crispy Perfection:

• Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Frying in batches is key to maintaining oil temperature and ensuring even crispiness.
• Watch the Temperature: If the oil is too cool, the ravioli will be greasy; too hot, and the breading will burn before the inside warms.
• Frozen is Fine: Using frozen ravioli is actually ideal – it holds its shape better during breading and frying. No need to thaw!
• Air Fryer Option: You can also air fry these! Lightly spray breaded ravioli with oil, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Get ready to dazzle your taste buds with these incredible Crispy Fried Ravioli! They're proof that sometimes, the best things come in small, golden packages. Enjoy!