Fried Ravioli with Marinara Dipping Sauce

Introduction

There’s something undeniably delightful about crispy, golden-brown fried ravioli. This recipe has become a favorite in my household, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. My family absolutely adores the crunch and flavor of these little bites, especially when paired with a tangy marinara dipping sauce. Whether it’s a game day snack or an appetizer before dinner, these fried ravioli are sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, which is always a win in my book!

Ingredients

• 1 pack of ravioli (any filling you like)
• 3 eggs
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp Italian parsley, finely chopped
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)

Instructions

Set Up the Breading Station

1. Crack the eggs into a shallow bowl and whisk thoroughly.
2. In another shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and chopped parsley.

Bread the Ravioli

3. Dip each ravioli into the whisked eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
4. Then, dip the egg-coated ravioli into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well. Repeat for all ravioli.

Heat the Oil

5. In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. To check if the oil is ready, sprinkle a pinch of flour into the oil; it should sizzle.

Fry the Ravioli

6. Fry the ravioli in batches of 3-4 at a time. Fry each side for 1-2 minutes, or until the ravioli are golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove the fried ravioli with a slotted spoon or spider strainer and place them on a wire rack to drain any excess oil.

Serve

8. Plate the fried ravioli and serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Enjoy these crispy fried ravioli with a delicious marinara dip—perfect for any occasion!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 300 calories
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 10g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
• Garnish with additional parsley for color.
• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Your Ravioli: Use any filling you love—cheese, meat, or even vegetables work beautifully.
2. Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a steady 350°F for the crispiest results. If it gets too cool, the ravioli may become greasy.
3. Batch Frying: Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
4. Drain Properly: Let the fried ravioli rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels to maintain their crispiness.
5. Customize Your Breadcrumbs: Feel free to mix in some grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs for added flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Variation: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan to the panko mixture for an extra cheesy coating.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy twist.
• Different Dips: Serve with ranch, garlic aioli, or a spicy marinara for variety.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with:
• A fresh garden salad
• Garlic bread
• A charcuterie board for an upscale appetizer option

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze un-fried, breaded ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be cooked straight from the freezer—just add a minute or two to the frying time.
• Storage: Leftover fried ravioli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F to regain crispiness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh ravioli?
   Yes, fresh ravioli can be used, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. Can I bake the ravioli instead of frying?
   Yes, for a healthier option, brush with oil and bake at 400°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. What fillings work best?
   Cheese, meat, and spinach ricotta are popular choices, but feel free to experiment!
4. How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
   Use a thermometer to check for 350°F or sprinkle a pinch of flour to see if it sizzles.
5. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare the breaded ravioli and refrigerate until ready to fry.
6. What kind of oil is best for frying?
   Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all great options.
7. How can I keep the ravioli crispy?
   Ensure they are not overcrowded while frying and let them drain on a wire rack.
8. What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
   You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, but panko gives a better crunch.
9. How long will the fried ravioli stay crispy?
   They are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge.
10. What should I serve with the ravioli?
    Pair with salads, garlic bread, or a variety of dipping sauces.

Conclusion

Fried ravioli with marinara dipping sauce is a delightful dish that is easy to prepare and always a hit at gatherings. The crispy texture paired with the rich marinara sauce makes for a delicious snack or appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more. Try this recipe at your next get-together and watch your family and friends enjoy every crispy bite!

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