I’m transforming ravioli into crunchy, golden bites coated in savory breadcrumbs—perfectly crisp on the outside, tender inside, ideal for dunking in marinara.
Why I’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe marries comfort and convenience. It channels the beloved St. Louis appetizer “toasted ravioli” but skips the deep-frying, using either my air fryer or oven instead. I get that crisp exterior with less oil, and the tangy marinara makes each bite feel satisfying and familiar.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Cheese or meat-filled ravioli (fresh or thawed)
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Seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan and Italian or dried basil seasoning
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Eggs (for dipping)
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Cooking spray
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Optional: parsley for garnish, marinara for dipping
Directions
I set up a simple assembly line with eggs in one bowl and the breadcrumb mixture in another. I dip each ravioli in egg, coat it in breadcrumbs, and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket—making sure they don’t touch. I lightly spray them with cooking spray. Then I air fry at 350 °F for about 6 minutes until crispy. For the oven version, I preheat to 400 °F and bake the ravioli on a greased sheet, flipping halfway through, until golden—about 10–15 minutes. Finally, I serve hot with marinara and a sprinkle of parsley.
Servings and timing
This makes about 4 servings, with prep taking around 15 minutes and cooking about 6 minutes in the air fryer—or 10–15 minutes in the oven.
Variations
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I sometimes add garlic salt or extra Italian seasoning into the breadcrumbs for bolder flavor.
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If I’m using frozen ravioli, I gently thaw before breading or follow a two-stage frying sequentially—first softening, then crisping—for the best texture.
Storage/reheating
If I have extras, I reheat them right in the air fryer at 350 °F for a few minutes or pop them in a preheated oven at 375 °F until heated through. They stay beautifully crisp that way—much better than the microwave.
FAQs
Can I air fry frozen ravioli directly?
I usually thaw them first, but others report success air frying straight from frozen with adjusted times and temperatures.
Why not deep-fry?
The air fryer gives the same crunch with far less oil—less mess, easier cleanup, and still super satisfying.
Any tips to keep them crispy?
I don’t overcrowd the basket, and I always spray both sides of each ravioli with cooking spray to encourage even browning.
Best dipping sauce?
Marinara is classic, but I’ve also served them with vodka sauce, ranch, or creamy sun-dried tomato dip for variety.
Can I freeze prepped toasts?
Yes—I freeze them after air-frying, then reheat in the air fryer or oven when I’m ready.
Conclusion
I adore these toasted ravioli because they deliver all the crisp, cheesy goodness of the restaurant classic with an easier, cleaner method. Whether it’s game day, an appetizer, or a cozy snack moment, they’re crunchy, comforting, and always hit the spot.
Print
Toasted Ravioli (Air Fryer or Oven)
Crispy, golden ravioli with a savory filling, coated in breadcrumbs and perfectly cooked in the air fryer or oven for a delicious appetizer or snack.
- Total Time: 25–33 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 package (about 9 oz) refrigerated cheese or meat ravioli
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cooking spray
Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
Place flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning in a third.
Coat each ravioli first in flour, then dip into eggs, and finally coat in breadcrumb mixture.
Air Fryer Method: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray coated ravioli with cooking spray, place in a single layer in the basket, and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Oven Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place coated ravioli on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (air fryer) / 18 minutes (oven)
- Category: Appetizers