Crispy Air Fryer Ravioli: Your Ultimate Guide to a Quick & Delicious Appetizer

Why Air Fryer Ravioli is a Game-Changer

This air fryer ravioli recipe stands out as a true culinary win for several compelling reasons. With just five simple ingredients and an incredibly short cook time of approximately 5 minutes (plus prep), you can whip up a batch of delectable, crispy ravioli that will impress everyone. Serve them alongside your favorite jarred marinara sauce, a tangy homemade pizza sauce, or any dip you desire. It’s the ultimate hassle-free appetizer!

While the allure of deep-fried foods is undeniable, the downsides—like excessive oil, grease splatter, and the subsequent messy cleanup—often deter us. The air fryer revolutionizes this experience, offering a significantly healthier and cleaner alternative. You achieve that sought-after crispy texture without the guilt or the laborious cleanup. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, creating a satisfying crunch on the exterior while keeping the inside perfectly tender. This method makes previously cumbersome fried dishes, like these air fryer mozzarella sticks, incredibly simple and accessible.

Beyond the health benefits and reduced mess, the speed and convenience of the air fryer are unparalleled. In less time than it takes to heat up a pot of oil, you can have a batch of perfectly ‘fried’ ravioli ready to serve. This makes it an ideal choice for impromptu gatherings, quick snacks, or last-minute additions to your meal spread. It’s also a fantastic way to introduce a fun, Italian-inspired appetizer without spending hours in the kitchen.

Essential Ingredients for Crispy Air Fryer Ravioli

Crafting these delectable air fryer ravioli requires just a handful of common ingredients. You’ll find all precise measurements, ingredient lists, and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card located at the end of this post.

PASTA – The undisputed star of this dish is, of course, the ravioli itself! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can choose any filled ravioli that tickles your fancy. Whether you prefer classic cheese, savory meat, nutrient-rich spinach, or a gourmet mushroom and truffle blend, the air fryer will transform it into a crispy delight. We typically opt for fresh ravioli found in the deli section of your grocery store for its tender texture and vibrant flavor. However, frozen ravioli works just as wonderfully. If using frozen, remember to let it thaw completely to room temperature before you begin the breading process. This ensures even cooking and optimal crispiness.

BREADING – To achieve that irresistible golden brown crust and satisfying crunch, we rely on a simple yet effective breading mixture. You’ll need all-purpose flour to create a dry surface for the egg wash to adhere to, followed by Italian seasoned breadcrumbs. The flour provides the initial coating, the beaten eggs act as a crucial binder, and the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs deliver both texture and a burst of savory, herb-infused flavor. Together, these ingredients form a perfect, lightly crunchy shell that holds up beautifully in the air fryer.

ADDITIONAL TOUCHES – Don’t forget the finishing touches! A generous sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese after cooking adds a salty, umami depth, while finely chopped fresh basil provides a vibrant, aromatic garnish that elevates the presentation and taste. And, of course, a side of warm marinara sauce is essential for dipping, completing the classic Italian appetizer experience.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LOVE THIS: For another fantastic air fryer snack, try our recipe for Air Fryer French Fries!

Step-by-Step: How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Ravioli

These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are provided to help you visualize each stage of making this recipe. For a quick reference, you can Jump to the full Recipe Card to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and instructions at the bottom of this post.

1. Begin by setting up your dipping station. You’ll need two separate Ziploc bags for the dry ingredients and a shallow pie plate or bowl for the egg wash. This organized setup will make the breading process smooth and efficient.
2. In the pie plate or bowl, crack and lightly beat the two large eggs until the yolks and whites are fully combined. In the first Ziploc bag, add the all-purpose flour. In the second Ziploc bag, pour in the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs. This separation ensures each ingredient coats the ravioli properly.
   
3. Add your thawed ravioli (if using frozen) into the Ziploc bag containing the flour. Seal the bag securely, ensuring some air is trapped inside to allow for movement. Gently shake the bag until each piece of ravioli is thoroughly coated with a light dusting of flour.
   
4. Carefully remove the flour-coated ravioli from the bag, shaking off any excess flour. Transfer these to the pie plate with the beaten eggs. Gently toss the ravioli in the egg wash, or use a pastry brush to ensure each piece is evenly coated. The egg wash acts as the crucial binder for the breadcrumbs.
   
5. Next, transfer about half of the egg-washed ravioli into the Ziploc bag with the breadcrumbs. Seal the bag and shake gently until all the ravioli are fully coated with the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs. Repeat this process with the remaining ravioli to avoid overcrowding the bag and ensure an even coating.
   
6. Prepare your air fryer by lightly spraying the basket with a non-stick cooking spray. Arrange the breaded ravioli in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Lightly spray the tops of the ravioli with olive oil spray for an extra golden crisp. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 2 minutes. Then, carefully flip each ravioli, spray the other side with olive oil, and air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they are perfectly golden brown and crispy.
   
   
7. Once cooked, immediately transfer the hot, crispy air fryer ravioli to a serving platter. Sprinkle generously with fresh Parmesan cheese and finely chopped basil for an irresistible aroma and flavor. Serve these delightful bites alongside warm marinara or your preferred dipping sauce. Enjoy them while they’re hot for the best texture!

Tips for Perfect Crispy Air Fryer Ravioli Every Time

Achieving perfectly crispy and delicious air fryer ravioli is simple with a few key tips:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: This is crucial for optimal crisping. Arrange ravioli in a single layer with space between each piece. If your air fryer basket is small, cook in batches. Overlapping will lead to steamed, rather than crispy, ravioli.
• Room Temperature Ravioli: If using frozen ravioli, always allow it to thaw completely to room temperature before breading. Cold ravioli may cook unevenly and can result in a less crispy exterior.
• Even Coating is Key: Ensure each ravioli is thoroughly coated in flour, then egg wash, and finally breadcrumbs. This layering creates the perfect base for that golden, crunchy exterior. Shake off any excess flour or breadcrumbs.
• Use an Oil Spray: A light spritz of olive oil spray on both sides of the breaded ravioli before and after flipping is essential. This helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color and irresistible crispiness that mimics deep frying.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Air fryer models can vary in heat and cooking intensity. Keep an eye on your ravioli during the final minutes of cooking to prevent burning and ensure they reach your desired level of crispness.
• Serve Immediately: For the absolute best texture, air fryer ravioli should be served hot right after cooking. As they cool, they may lose some of their crispiness.

Exciting Flavor Variations & Dipping Sauce Ideas

One of the joys of this air fryer ravioli recipe is its adaptability. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences!

Ravioli Filling Options:

• Classic Cheese: Ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, or a four-cheese blend are always winners.
• Meat Varieties: Beef, sausage, or a combination for a heartier bite.
• Vegetarian Delights: Spinach and ricotta, mushroom, butternut squash, or roasted vegetable fillings offer different flavor profiles.

Breading Enhancements:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your breadcrumbs for a subtle heat.
• Garlic & Herb: Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, or parsley with your Italian breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor.
• Panko Power: For an extra-crispy texture, substitute regular breadcrumbs with Panko breadcrumbs.
• Parmesan Boost: Incorporate some grated Parmesan directly into your breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy crust.

Beyond Marinara: Creative Dipping Sauces:

While marinara is a classic for a reason, don’t be afraid to experiment with other delicious dips:

• Creamy Alfredo Sauce: A rich and indulgent pairing, especially with cheese-filled ravioli.
• Bright Pesto Sauce: Offers a fresh, herbaceous contrast.
• Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a zesty kick.
• Garlic Aioli: A creamy, garlicky dip that complements the crispy pasta beautifully.
• Homemade Ranch Dressing: Tangy and cool, a popular choice for many fried appetizers.
• Honey Mustard: For a sweet and savory combination that kids often love.

Feel free to mix and match fillings, breading seasonings, and dipping sauces to discover your ultimate air fryer ravioli experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

---

Making fried ravioli can often be a messy and time-consuming endeavor. That’s precisely why this air fryer ravioli recipe is such a game-changer! Air frying offers a quicker, cleaner, and healthier alternative to traditional deep-frying. There’s no need for gallons of oil or the headache of grease splatters and tedious cleanup. Just pure, unadulterated crispy deliciousness in minutes!

Explore More Delicious Air Fryer Recipes

Love your air fryer as much as we do? Here are more fantastic recipes to try, from savory snacks to sweet treats:

• Air Fryer Apple Fries
• Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
• Air Fryer Pretzel Bites
• Air Fryer French Toast Bites
• Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp

I absolutely love to bake and cook, and it’s my passion to share my kitchen experiences and delicious recipes with all of you! Remembering to come back each day for new culinary inspiration can be tough, and that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter delivered directly to your inbox every time a new recipe is posted. Simply subscribe here and start receiving your free daily recipes to keep your cooking exciting and fresh!