
Cheese-filled fried ravioli are the ultimate party snack that almost guarantees an empty plate by the end of the night. I first brought these to a family movie marathon and watched them disappear in a flash everyone kept coming back for that unbelievable crunch and cheesy center. Whether you pop them in the air fryer or go the classic deep-fried route the result is pure comfort for any gathering or cozy night.
When I first made this fried ravioli the whole house filled with that irresistible aroma and it became my husband's most requested appetizer. It is now a steady favorite on our weekend snack list.
Ingredients
- Cheese ravioli: basic frozen variety delivers a satisfying cheesy bite choose a brand that uses real cheese for best results
- All-purpose flour: essential for the first crisp coating make sure it is fresh for good adhesion
- Eggs and milk: act as the glue to hold the crumbs to the ravioli room temperature helps with even coating
- Italian bread crumbs: provide herby flavor and crunchy texture look for a mix with some dried herbs
- Parmesan cheese: brings extra savory depth fresh grated gives the best taste and melt
- Garlic powder: a quick way to add a warm garlicky note go for one that smells strong and fresh
- Kosher salt: seasons the breading and enhances the cheese taste flaky salt is easiest to distribute
- Black pepper: offers a little gentle heat freshly cracked is always worth the effort
- Vegetable oil: for deep frying neutral flavor and high smoke point stick with canola or corn oil
- Parsley: gives a pop of color and freshness for garnish choose flat-leaf for more flavor
- Marinara sauce: makes dipping absolutely addictive a good jarred version works fine but homemade if you have the time is always delightful
Instructions
- Prepare the Coating Stations:
- Set out three separate wide bowls or plates plus a tray lined with parchment This keeps everything organized and tidy as you prep
- Dredge the Ravioli:
- Drop each ravioli into the flour coating it thoroughly so the next layers stick well Shake off excess for best results
- Dip in Egg Mixture:
- Whisk eggs with milk until smooth then turn each flour-dusted ravioli in the mixture This builds a strong base for the crispy crumb
- Bread the Ravioli:
- Coat the wet ravioli with the seasoned bread crumb and parmesan mixture Make sure every bit is evenly covered Lay each piece on the lined tray
- Chill Before Cooking:
- For the oil method freeze the breaded ravioli for thirty minutes This helps them hold their shape during frying For the air fryer skip this and move right to the next step
- Cook the Ravioli:
- For air frying spray both sides lightly with oil then arrange in one layer in the air fryer basket Cook at three hundred fifty degrees for ten minutes flipping once For deep frying heat oil to three hundred fifty degrees and fry a few ravioli at a time just until golden brown which takes around two or three minutes
- Serve and Garnish:
- Let the cooked ravioli drain briefly then pile onto a platter Sprinkle with more parmesan and chopped parsley if you like Serve hot with warm marinara for dipping

One of my favorite parts about making fried ravioli is sneaking a taste of the hot cheese filling right after it comes out of the oil My youngest always wants to be the taste tester and her face lighting up at the first bite is a tradition in our house
Storage and Leftover Tips
Cool completely before storing and keep in an airtight container in the fridge To reheat always use the oven or air fryer instead of the microwave to bring back the crunch Leftovers are perfect for lunchboxes the next day my kids love them cold too
Easy Ingredient Swaps
Feel free to use meat or spinach ravioli if you like a different filling Panko bread crumbs can be used for a lighter crunch Add a little smoked paprika to the breading for a touch of extra flavor
Perfect Ways to Serve This
Serve with different dipping sauces like ranch garlic aioli or even pesto Pair as a hearty snack alongside a big salad or soup for dinner They are fantastic party starters at any holiday spread just watch them vanish

Just a sprinkle of parmesan over the top right before serving takes the flavor up a notch. Fried ravioli are always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I prevent ravioli from bursting while frying?
Freeze breaded ravioli before frying them in oil. This helps them hold their shape and prevents bursting.
- → Can I use homemade ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes, homemade ravioli can be used. Ensure they're fully sealed before breading and frying for best results.
- → What's the best oil temperature for frying?
Maintain oil at 350°F (177°C) when frying. This ensures crispiness without absorbing excess oil.
- → Can I bake instead of fry the ravioli?
Yes, arrange breaded ravioli on a baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 400°F until golden and crisp.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled ravioli in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with crispy ravioli?
Classic marinara is popular, but Alfredo or garlic aioli also make delicious options.