If you love crispy, cheesy bites bursting with Italian flavor, you are going to adore this Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe. It takes traditional fried ravioli up a notch by using the air fryer to create a perfectly golden, crunchy exterior without the mess and heaviness of deep frying. The combination of buttery buttermilk soak and a savory breadcrumb coating makes each ravioli irresistibly crisp and full of flavor. Plus, pairing these delightful pockets with warm marinara sauce makes for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that’s ready in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe just right starts with a handful of simple ingredients that work perfectly together to give you that crave-worthy crispy texture and rich flavor. Each ingredient plays a key role, from tender ravioli to the flavorful breadcrumb coating.
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese ravioli: The star of the show, providing creamy, cheesy filling and tender pasta.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Helps the coating stick while adding a subtle tang and moistening the ravioli.
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs: Packed with herbs and spices, these breadcrumbs create a flavorful, crunchy crust.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty notes that enhance the breadcrumb coating.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, savory aroma that brings depth to every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides a classic Italian herb flavor that brightens the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors in the coating.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a hint of spice for complexity.
- Olive oil spray: Ensures the ravioli crisp up beautifully without excess oil.
- Warm marinara sauce for serving: The perfect tangy dip that complements the crispy ravioli.
How to Make Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe
Step 1: Soak the Ravioli in Buttermilk
Start by placing your refrigerated cheese ravioli in a shallow bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Let them soak for about 5 minutes. This soak softens the pasta slightly and ensures the breadcrumb mixture will adhere perfectly, resulting in that ideal crispy coating.
Step 2: Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture
While the ravioli soak, combine Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a separate bowl. This mix brings together savory herbs and sharp cheese, creating a coating that is bursting with flavor and great texture.
Step 3: Coat the Ravioli
Remove each ravioli from the buttermilk, letting any extra drip off, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to make sure every inch is coated in that crispy, flavorful crust. Be patient with this step—it’s what transforms simple ravioli into a crunchy delight.
Step 4: Preheat and Arrange in Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s hot enough to crisp the ravioli quickly and evenly. Spray both sides of your coated ravioli with olive oil spray to help get golden brown edges. Place them in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, working in batches if needed—you want to avoid overcrowding so they crisp up properly.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Cook the ravioli for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Watch as they turn that irresistible golden brown color that signals crunchiness waiting to be devoured. The air fryer makes this process simple, oil-light, and mess-free compared to traditional frying methods.
How to Serve Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe, consider sprinkling freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top. A dusting of extra grated Parmesan cheese adds an inviting, cheesy finish. If you love a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes makes a wonderful contrast with the creamy filling and crispy crust.
Side Dishes
Serve these crispy ravioli alongside a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal. Roasted vegetables or a simple bowl of soup pair beautifully, turning your appetizer into a satisfying lunch or light dinner. Garlic bread or focaccia also complements the Italian flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe on a platter with small bowls of different dips like spicy marinara, creamy pesto, or a tangy ranch. For parties, serve them on skewers with dipping sauces or atop individual salad plates for a fun appetizer experience. You can even layer them over spaghetti for a unique twist on a classic pasta dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers—though they rarely last long—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain their crispiness, avoid stacking them too tightly.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked, breaded ravioli by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, do not thaw; simply air fry from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat and retain that wonderful crunch, place leftover ravioli back in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ravioli instead of refrigerated?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw them slightly or add a few extra minutes to the air frying time if cooking directly from frozen. The key is that the coating adheres well to the pasta for a crispy finish.
What alternatives can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can mix 1/2 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes. This homemade substitute works just as well to help the breadcrumb coating stick.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
This recipe is vegetarian but not vegan due to the cheese in the ravioli and Parmesan in the coating. You could try vegan ravioli and substitute nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative for a vegan-friendly version.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture to bring some heat to your Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe. It pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling and tangy marinara.
How do I ensure the ravioli don’t stick to the air fryer basket?
Give the basket a light spray of olive oil spray before placing the ravioli in it. Also, make sure not to overcrowd the basket so the ravioli crisp evenly without sticking.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Ravioli Recipe is a total game changer for anyone who loves crispy, cheesy bites without the fuss of deep frying. It’s quick, effortless, and perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own anytime you crave a deliciously crunchy snack. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new favorite in your kitchen!
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
This Air Fryer Ravioli recipe offers a crispy, golden appetizer that’s quick and easy to prepare. Breaded cheese ravioli are soaked in buttermilk, coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture, and air fried to perfection, delivering a healthier twist on traditional fried ravioli. Serve with warm marinara sauce for a delicious Italian-American snack or starter.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese ravioli
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 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
- 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. Let them soak for about 5 minutes to help the 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. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to ensure optimal cooking temperature for crispiness.
- Coat Ravioli: Remove each ravioli piece from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each ravioli in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly.
- Apply Olive Oil: Lightly spray both sides of each coated ravioli with olive oil spray. This promotes browning and crisp texture during air frying.
- Air Fry Ravioli: Arrange the breaded ravioli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time, until they turn golden brown and crispy. Work in batches if necessary.
- Serve: Serve the crispy air-fried ravioli immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping, enhancing the flavor and providing a classic combination.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- You can substitute cheese ravioli with meat or spinach ravioli depending on your preference.
