The magic of this dish is in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and less than 30 minutes, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like something straight out of a gourmet magazine. The combination of the delicate ravioli, the crispy coating, and the rich marinara sauce for dipping is irresistible. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about that first bite—when you feel the crunch of the bread crumbs, followed by the soft, cheesy ravioli filling. It’s like a symphony of textures and flavors in every bite.
One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can use any type of refrigerated ravioli you like. Whether you’re in the mood for cheese, spinach, or even lobster ravioli, the possibilities are endless. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. It requires minimal prep work, and thanks to the air fryer, you can enjoy all the taste of fried ravioli without the guilt of deep frying.
I often find myself reaching for this recipe when I want to impress guests or when I simply crave something comforting yet easy to make. So, next time you’re in need of a crowd-pleaser, I highly recommend giving this Air Fryer Ravioli a try. You won’t regret it!
How to Make Air Fryer Ravioli
Click here to get printable version
Ingredients:
- 1 container refrigerated Ravioli of your choice
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Directions:
- Begin by cracking and beating the eggs in a shallow bowl until they’re well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, combine the bread crumbs, Panko bread crumbs, and Parmesan cheese, stirring to mix thoroughly.
- Prepare your air fryer by lining the basket with parchment paper or a suitable liner to prevent sticking.
- Take each ravioli and dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring any excess drips off.
- Coat the egg-dipped ravioli in the bread crumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.
- Arrange the coated ravioli in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding.
- Lightly spray the tops of the ravioli with cooking spray to promote even browning.
- Air fry at 370°F for 3 to 4 minutes, flip them, spray again, and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until they are golden and crispy.
- Serve the hot ravioli with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your crispy treat!
Swaps for Ravioli in This Dish
You can easily swap out the refrigerated ravioli for frozen ones if that’s what you have on hand—just thaw them first. For a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free bread crumbs and ravioli. If you don’t have Panko, regular bread crumbs will do, although Panko gives a lighter, crispier texture.
Best Ways to Store Leftover Air Fryer Ravioli
Store any leftover ravioli in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3 minutes until they’re warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Perfect Pairings for Air Fryer Ravioli
These ravioli pair perfectly with a simple green salad to balance out the richness. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors beautifully. You can also serve them alongside a charcuterie board for an elegant spread.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Ravioli
Ensure your ravioli are not overcrowded in the air fryer, as this will prevent them from crisping properly. Also, try adding a pinch of Italian seasoning to the bread crumb mix for an extra flavor boost. For those who love spice, a dash of red pepper flakes in the mix can add a delightful kick.
Seasonal Twists for Air Fryer Ravioli
In the summer, use fresh basil from the garden to sprinkle over the finished dish for a burst of freshness. During the fall, try serving them with a warm pumpkin or butternut squash sauce instead of marinara. Winter calls for a sprinkle of truffle oil for a luxurious touch, while spring invites the use of lemon zest for a zingy finish.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen ravioli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ravioli. Just make sure to thaw them completely before dipping them in the egg mixture. This ensures they cook evenly and the coating sticks properly, giving you that perfect crispy texture.
What if I don’t have Panko bread crumbs?
If you’re out of Panko bread crumbs, you can substitute them with regular bread crumbs. While the texture will be slightly different, you will still achieve a deliciously crispy ravioli. Adding some crushed cornflakes can also mimic the crunch of Panko.
How can I make the dish spicier?
To spice up your Air Fryer Ravioli, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the bread crumb mixture. You can also serve them with a spicier marinara or incorporate a dash of hot sauce into the dipping sauce for an extra kick.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! To make this recipe dairy-free, you can omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan Parmesan alternative. Additionally, choose a dairy-free ravioli option available in many grocery stores these days.
What kind of marinara sauce is best for dipping?
A classic marinara sauce works beautifully with this dish, offering a rich, tangy contrast to the crispy coating. If you prefer, you can use a spicy arrabbiata sauce or even a creamy Alfredo for a different flavor profile that matches your taste preferences.
Can I prepare the ravioli ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the breaded ravioli a few hours in advance. Store them in a single layer on a tray in the refrigerator until you’re ready to air fry. This makes it convenient for entertaining, ensuring you have more time to spend with your guests.
Air Fryer Ravioli
Equipment
- Air fryer
Ingredients
- 1 container refrigerated Ravioli of your choice
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs any kind
- 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs any kind
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk the two eggs until well beaten.
- Combine the regular bread crumbs, Panko bread crumbs, and Parmesan cheese in a separate bowl.
- Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or a suitable liner.
- Dip each piece of ravioli into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Coat the ravioli generously with the bread crumb mixture.
- Arrange the coated ravioli in the lined air fryer basket without overcrowding.
- Lightly spray the ravioli with the cooking spray.
- Set the air fryer to 370°F and cook for 3-4 minutes. Flip the ravioli, spray again, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful treat!
