If you have ever dreamed of enjoying perfectly crispy, golden pockets of cheesy goodness without the mess of deep frying, this Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. It takes humble refrigerated cheese ravioli and transforms them into irresistible bite-sized appetizers with a delightfully crunchy crust that pairs beautifully with warm marinara sauce. Crunchy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside, these air-fried ravioli are a game-changer when it comes to easy, flavorful snacks or starters.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple yet play crucial roles in bringing out the perfect balance of texture and taste in your Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe. Each component builds layers of flavor, crispiness, and that inviting golden sheen that makes this dish so delightful.
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese ravioli: The star of the show, offering a soft, cheesy center that contrasts with the crispy coating.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Tenderizes the ravioli and helps the breadcrumbs adhere properly for that crunch.
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs: Packed with herbs and texture to deliver the crispy crust everyone loves.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor enhancing the breadcrumb coating.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A warm, savory punch that infuses the crust with depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an aromatic Italian touch to the breadcrumb mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and elevates the overall taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and complexity.
- Olive oil spray: Ensures the ravioli crisp up perfectly in the air fryer without excess oil.
- Warm marinara sauce for serving: Essential for dipping, delivering acidity and richness that complements the crispy ravioli.
How to Make Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe
Step 1: Soak the Ravioli in Buttermilk
Begin by gently placing your refrigerated cheese ravioli into a shallow bowl and pouring the buttermilk over them. Let them soak for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as the buttermilk softens the pasta edges a bit and acts like a glue for the breadcrumb coating to stick beautifully during air frying.
Step 2: Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients beforehand ensures every single ravioli is coated evenly with a robust, herb-infused crust that will deliver maximum flavor and crunch.
Step 3: Coat the Ravioli
Take each ravioli out of the buttermilk, letting any excess drip back into the bowl. Dredge it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating clings tightly. This ensures your ravioli will crisp up perfectly in the air fryer and maintain their signature filling inside.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer and Prepare Ravioli
Set your air fryer to 375°F and let it preheat. Meanwhile, spray both sides of each coated ravioli lightly with olive oil spray. This step is the secret to achieving that mouthwatering golden-brown crunch without deep frying.
Step 5: Air Fry Until Crispy
Arrange the ravioli in a single layer inside the air fryer basket—avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should come out crisp, golden, and irresistibly crunchy on the outside while keeping that luscious cheesy center warm.
Step 6: Serve with Warm Marinara Sauce
Once cooked, serve your ravishing Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe immediately with a side of warm marinara sauce. This classic pairing elevates the appetizer, adding a zesty tomato punch to every bite.
How to Serve Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the crispy ravioli to add a pop of fresh color and herbal brightness. A light dusting of extra grated Parmesan can also amp up the savory vibe and make the dish look even more inviting on the plate.
Side Dishes
This Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a light Caprese salad featuring fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes. For heartier options, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a warm bowl of minestrone soup to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these crispy ravioli on skewers dipped in the marinara sauce, making them perfect for parties or game days. Alternatively, place the ravioli atop a bed of arugula with a drizzle of balsamic glaze to create a vibrant and elegant appetizer plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any air-fried ravioli left over, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent them from becoming soggy, place paper towels between layers to absorb any residual moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze the uncooked, breaded ravioli on a baking sheet in a single layer for up to one month. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag, making it easy to cook a crispy snack anytime straight from the freezer without thawing.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-air-fryer crunch when reheating leftovers, reheat your ravioli in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3 to 5 minutes. This method crisps them up wonderfully, avoiding the sogginess that can happen with microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ravioli instead of refrigerated for this Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen ravioli can be used, but you may want to thaw them slightly first to ensure the coating sticks well and the cooking time adjusts properly. Keep an eye on them in the air fryer to prevent overcooking.
Is it necessary to soak the ravioli in buttermilk?
While buttermilk is traditional in this recipe for helping the coating adhere and tenderizing the pasta edges, you can substitute with milk or beaten egg. Just note that buttermilk adds a subtle tang that enhances flavor.
How do you keep the ravioli from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lightly spraying both the ravioli and the air fryer basket with olive oil helps prevent sticking. Also, placing them in a single layer without overcrowding makes flipping easier and ensures even crisping.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture before coating the ravioli. This little kick complements the savory cheese filling and Italian herbs beautifully.
What should I serve with Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe for a complete meal?
Pairing these crispy ravioli with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables keeps the meal balanced and satisfying. For a heartier meal, add a side of garlic bread or a light pasta dish to round things out.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about this Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe that makes it an instant favorite for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It’s quick, simple, and delivers that crave-worthy crunch without the fuss of frying in oil. Next time you want a snack that feels indulgent but is effortless to make, give this recipe a try — you might just find your new go-to appetizer or party pleaser.
Print
Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy, golden air fryer ravioli is an easy and delicious appetizer that pairs perfectly with warm marinara sauce. This recipe uses refrigerated cheese ravioli coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and air fried to perfection, delivering a healthier alternative to traditional frying with minimal oil.
Ingredients
Ravioli and Marinade
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese ravioli
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other
- Olive oil spray
- Warm marinara sauce for serving
Instructions
- Soak Ravioli: Place the refrigerated cheese ravioli in a shallow bowl and pour the buttermilk over them, allowing them to soak for about 5 minutes to help the breadcrumb coating adhere better.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In another bowl, combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to create a seasoned breading.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for crisping the ravioli.
- Coat Ravioli: Remove each ravioli from the buttermilk, gently letting any excess drip off. Dredge them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to coat each ravioli thoroughly and evenly on all sides.
- Apply Olive Oil Spray: Lightly spray both sides of each breaded ravioli with olive oil spray to help achieve a crispy, golden finish during air frying.
- Air Fry Ravioli: Arrange the coated ravioli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking, until the ravioli are golden brown and crispy. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Serve: Serve the crispy air-fried ravioli immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping to enjoy this delightful appetizer at its best.
Notes
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- You can substitute cheese ravioli with meat or spinach ravioli varieties based on preference.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and crispiness.
- Use warm marinara sauce to enhance the flavor and make dipping easier.
