The moment the air fryer whirs to life, I’m met with the inviting scent of something incredible—crispy on the outside, warm and cheesy on the inside. This Air Fryer Ravioli recipe has become my go-to for cozy evenings or spontaneous game nights with friends. With hardly any oil involved, I can enjoy a beloved comfort food without the guilt of traditional frying.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; whether you’re a fan of classic cheese ravioli or adventurous flavors like butternut squash, you’ll find your ideal match here. Picture golden, crunchy pockets that are perfect for dipping into rich marinara or zesty pesto, delivering a delightful pop of flavor with every bite. From busy weeknights to entertaining guests, these air-fried ravioli promise to satisfy cravings while keeping things quick and easy in the kitchen.
Ready to elevate your snacking game? Let’s dive into this simple yet surprisingly elegant recipe that transforms frozen ravioli into an irresistible, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Why is Air Fryer Ravioli a must-try?
Ease of Preparation: This recipe is incredibly simple, making it perfect for both novice cooks and busy chefs alike!
Flavor Variations: Customize with your favorite ravioli fillings, from classic cheese to exciting butternut squash.
Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Whether it’s game night or a casual get-together, these crispy bites will WOW your guests every time!
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy the deliciousness of comfort food with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods.
Quick Cooking Time: With just a 7-minute air frying session, you can whip up these tasty treats in no time!
Elevate your appetizers and try serving them with homemade dipping sauces as an extra treat!
Air Fryer Ravioli Ingredients
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For the Breading
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Large Eggs – Binds the breading mixture; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
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Whole Milk – Adds moisture to the egg mixture; any milk alternative works well here.
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Italian Bread Crumbs – Provides the crunchy coating; panko is perfect for extra texture.
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Grated Parmesan – Enhances flavor in the breading; try nutritional yeast for a vegan substitute.
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Kosher Salt – Balances flavors; table salt can be used in equal measure.
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Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a dash of spice; dried black pepper is a viable alternative.
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For the Ravioli
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Refrigerated Ravioli (20-oz package) – The star of the dish; choose any filling you love for your air fryer ravioli experience.
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Cooking Spray – Ensures even crispiness; a light brush of olive oil works nicely too.
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For Dipping
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Pesto or Marinara – Essential for dipping; both homemade and store-bought options work wonderfully!
How to Make Air Fryer Ravioli
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Prepare Breading: In a bowl, whisk together large eggs and whole milk, seasoning with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for flavor. In another bowl, mix Italian bread crumbs and grated Parmesan, creating a delicious crunch for your ravioli.
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Coat Ravioli: Take each refrigerated ravioli and first dip it into the egg mixture. Then, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated and ready for that satisfying crunch after air frying.
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Air Fry: Arrange your coated ravioli in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they have space to breathe. Lightly spray them with cooking spray and air fry at 375°F for about 7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Serve: Pair your crispy creations with a side of pesto or marinara for dipping. Enjoy them immediately while they’re hot and crispy for the perfect bite!
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Ravioli
- Use Fresh Ravioli: Ensure you use fresh refrigerated ravioli, as this method doesn’t work well with dried pasta. Freshness guarantees a better texture and taste.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Place ravioli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This ensures even cooking and maintains the desired crispiness for your air fryer ravioli.
- Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to try various ravioli fillings, such as mushroom or butternut squash, to create unique flavor profiles that suit your palate.
- Check Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your ravioli while they cook. Air fryers vary; you might need a minute or two less or more than the recommended time for optimal results.
- Perfect the Breading: For a lighter crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of traditional Italian breadcrumbs. They give an even flakier texture to your air fryer ravioli.
Air Fryer Ravioli Variations
Embrace the fun of experimenting and dive into these delicious adaptations of your favorite dish!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap in spinach and ricotta ravioli for a fresh, flavorful option that adds a twist to every bite.
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Spicy Kick: Choose jalapeño cheese ravioli for a spicy surprise that brings heat to your dip-related fun.
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Herbaceous Touch: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the breading for an aromatic flavor boost that elevates the dish.
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Crunchy Twist: Use crushed tortilla chips instead of breadcrumbs for a zesty crunch that adds character to your air fryer ravioli.
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Savory Mushroom: Select mushroom ravioli for an earthy, umami twist that pairs beautifully with creamy garlic aioli.
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Nut-Free: If you need to avoid nuts, ensure your breading is nut-free and try sun-dried tomato ravioli for an unexpected burst of flavor.
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Sweet Surprise: Experiment with dessert ravioli, like chocolate or fruit-filled, to create a sweet version that’s perfect for snacking any time of day.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and fill with your favorite gluten-free ravioli for a satisfying treat that everyone can enjoy.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Ravioli?
Elevate your air fryer ravioli experience with delightful side dishes and drinks that complement their crispy, cheesy goodness.
- Garlic Bread: This fragrant bread brings the perfect crunch and buttery flavor, making it a satisfying companion for any ravioli dish.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the rich and cheesy ravioli bites, balancing out the meal beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Flavorful roasted seasonal vegetables add a lovely char and natural sweetness that pairs excellently with the savory crunch of the ravioli.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a fresh, vibrant taste that complements the hearty ravioli.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, they add a fun twist while keeping the dish healthy, creating a deliciously colorful plate.
- Prosecco or White Wine: A chilled glass of bubbly Prosecco or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc refreshes the palate, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Chocolate Mousse: Wrap up your meal with a rich, velvety chocolate mousse for a sweet ending that feels luxurious yet easy to make.
- Pesto Pasta Salad: Vibrant pasta salad dressed in herby pesto offers a lovely balance to the crunchy ravioli while adding extra flavor dimensions.
- Fruit Sorbet: A light and fruity sorbet is a delightful way to cleanse the palate after enjoying the richness of air fryer ravioli.
- Lemonade: Quench your thirst with a glass of refreshing homemade lemonade, providing a zesty burst of flavor alongside your crispy bites.
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Ravioli
- Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy air fryer ravioli immediately for optimal flavor and texture; if left out, consume within 1 hour.
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked, breaded ravioli on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months; no thawing needed before cooking!
- Reheating: To reheat refrigerated air fryer ravioli, air fry at 375°F for about 3-5 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Ravioli are perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings! You can prepare the coating (egg mixture and breadcrumbs) and coat the ravioli up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the breaded ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This method allows the flavors to meld while keeping the ravioli fresh and crisp upon cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply air fry the ravioli for about 7 minutes at 375°F, and they’ll be just as delicious as if made fresh. This way, you save valuable time without sacrificing flavor!
Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe FAQs
What type of ravioli should I use for air frying?
I recommend using fresh refrigerated ravioli, as this method yields the best texture and flavor. Avoid dried pasta, as it won’t have the same delightful crunch once air-fried. Any filling works! Choose classics like cheese or get adventurous with butternut squash.
How can I store leftover air fryer ravioli?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the best results, reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F for about 3-5 minutes until they are crispy and heated through. This will help retain their delicious crunch.
Can I freeze air-fried ravioli?
Absolutely! For freezing uncooked breaded ravioli, first place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. There’s no need to thaw before cooking! Just pop them straight into the air fryer at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes.
What should I do if my ravioli are not crispy enough?
If your air fryer ravioli aren’t crispy, a few things might help! Double-check that you’re using fresh ravioli instead of dried. Ensure your air fryer isn’t overcrowded, allowing the hot air to circulate properly. If necessary, try increasing the cooking time in 1-minute increments until crispy perfection is reached.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a vegan option, substitute the large eggs with flax eggs and use a dairy-free milk alternative. For the cheese in the breading, nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese works well. Always check ravioli labels to ensure they align with dietary needs!
Can I use different dipping sauces with air fryer ravioli?
Very! While classic marinara and vibrant pesto are favorites, feel free to experiment. Try spicy marinara, garlic aioli, or even homemade ranch for extra flavor options. Each sauce can add a delightful twist, depending on your preferences—so go ahead and mix it up!
Crispy Air Fryer Ravioli for Quick Comfort Food Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together large eggs and whole milk, seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper.
- In another bowl, mix Italian bread crumbs and grated Parmesan.
- Take each refrigerated ravioli, dip it into the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange coated ravioli in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spray with cooking spray, and air fry at 375°F for about 7 minutes.
- Serve with a side of pesto or marinara for dipping.