Crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly golden, these Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli are your new go-to for easy appetizers or crowd-pleasing snacks. No deep-frying mess, just crunchy perfection in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re hosting game night or need a quick comfort bite, this recipe delivers on flavor and simplicity.
Serve them with a warm marinara sauce or pair with a creamy garlic dip for an unforgettable appetizer experience. The seasoned breadcrumbs create the perfect crust, while the inside remains soft and cheesy. Ideal for vegetarians (when using cheese ravioli), this dish brings an Italian restaurant vibe straight to your kitchen.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 package (16 oz) frozen ravioli (cheese or meat-filled)
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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2 eggs, beaten
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1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Olive oil spray
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Marinara sauce, for dipping
Directions:
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Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
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Set up a breading station: one bowl with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan and Italian seasoning.
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Coat each ravioli in flour, then dip into eggs, and coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
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Arrange the breaded ravioli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with olive oil.
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Air fry for 5-6 minutes, flip, spray again, and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
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Serve hot with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
What Makes Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli So Special?
Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli is one of those dishes that strikes the perfect balance between indulgent comfort food and modern cooking convenience. Traditionally a St. Louis culinary treasure, toasted ravioli has found its way into kitchens across the country — and for good reason. It’s a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer that’s crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside, and typically served with a warm marinara dipping sauce. Thanks to the air fryer, we now have a healthier, mess-free way to enjoy this nostalgic favorite without compromising on flavor or crunch.
What truly sets this dish apart is its transformation through air frying. The air fryer uses rapid hot air circulation to mimic the effects of deep frying — minus the excess oil. This means you get that same satisfying golden-brown crust without submerging anything in oil. The result is a crispy, flavor-packed ravioli that retains its structure and tastes every bit as decadent as its deep-fried counterpart.
The Origin of Toasted Ravioli
Toasted ravioli originated in St. Louis, Missouri, and is most commonly associated with the Italian-American neighborhood known as “The Hill.” It’s believed that the dish was created by accident when a chef dropped a ravioli into hot oil instead of boiling water. The result was a crispy, golden shell that proved to be a hit. Over time, it evolved from a culinary mishap into a regional specialty, now often seen on menus throughout the Midwest.
While traditionally deep-fried, the shift to air frying has introduced this appetizer to a wider audience — especially those looking for lighter, healthier versions of their favorite comfort foods. It’s also perfect for weeknights, parties, or last-minute gatherings because of how easy and fast it is to prepare.
Why the Air Fryer Method Works So Well
Air frying has become wildly popular in recent years, and with good reason. It’s fast, convenient, and it drastically cuts down on the amount of oil needed to prepare crispy dishes. In the case of toasted ravioli, air frying locks in the flavor while achieving that crave-worthy crunch. The breadcrumb coating becomes perfectly toasted, and the cheese or meat filling inside remains warm and melty.
Using an air fryer also makes cleanup easier. There’s no splatter of oil to manage, no waiting for fryers to heat up, and no worries about disposing of used oil. Simply preheat the air fryer, coat your ravioli, and let the appliance work its magic.
Perfect for Parties and Entertaining
One of the best things about Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli is how versatile and shareable it is. These crispy bites are perfect as an appetizer for game nights, holiday gatherings, or casual dinners. They hold up well on platters and can be served with a variety of dips — though marinara remains the classic choice.
You can easily make a double or triple batch, depending on the size of your air fryer, and guests will love that they’re getting something crispy and satisfying that doesn’t feel greasy or heavy. They’re also kid-friendly, making them a great choice for family dinners or even after-school snacks.
Flavor Customizations and Variations
One of the fun aspects of this dish is how easy it is to make it your own. While cheese ravioli is the go-to for most versions, meat-filled, spinach, or even mushroom ravioli work just as well. You can also play around with the breadcrumb mixture: adding crushed red pepper flakes for heat, smoked paprika for depth, or even lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
The dipping sauce possibilities are endless. Marinara sauce is classic, but pesto, creamy garlic sauce, ranch, or a balsamic glaze can take things in a whole new direction. Want to add more texture? Toss some fresh parsley or grated Parmesan on top just before serving.
You can also experiment with gluten-free or vegan versions using store-bought specialty ravioli and gluten-free breadcrumbs. This flexibility makes the recipe perfect for various dietary needs and occasions.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
If you’re a meal prepper or like to plan ahead for gatherings, toasted ravioli is your new best friend. You can easily bread the ravioli and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, pop them directly into the air fryer — no need to thaw. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time, and you’re set.
This make-ahead capability makes it perfect for busy households or hosts looking to save time on the day of the event. It also helps reduce food waste if you buy ravioli in bulk or want to make use of ingredients you already have on hand.
Pairing Suggestions for a Full Spread
While Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli shines on its own, it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks. Consider serving it alongside a fresh Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or antipasto skewers for a more complete appetizer spread.
For beverages, a bold red wine like Chianti or a sparkling prosecco complements the richness of the dish. If you’re serving these at a party, a craft beer or light cocktail like an Aperol spritz would also make excellent pairings.
If you’re looking to turn this appetizer into a full meal, serve it with a hearty soup like tomato basil or a creamy Alfredo pasta. The contrast in textures and flavors adds balance and creates a more filling dining experience.
Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved
The crispy, cheesy, finger-food nature of toasted ravioli makes it incredibly appealing to children. Unlike some recipes that require a more refined palate, this one is straightforward and comforting. You can even turn preparation into a family activity by letting kids help coat the ravioli with breadcrumbs — just keep an eye on the mess!
It’s also a great way to introduce picky eaters to new flavors or textures. Since it’s essentially a crunchy pasta snack, it usually wins over even the fussiest of eaters.
A Healthier Way to Indulge
One of the best things about this recipe is that it satisfies the craving for fried food without actually being deep-fried. By using the air fryer, you cut down significantly on fat and calories without giving up on texture or flavor. That makes this dish a fantastic option for people trying to eat healthier, without compromising on taste.
You can also adjust the ingredients to suit low-sodium, vegetarian, or even plant-based diets. As more air fryer-specific products hit the market (like vegan ravioli or low-carb pasta), your options continue to grow.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli is the perfect combination of nostalgic comfort food and modern convenience. It brings all the joy of classic Italian flavors wrapped in a golden, crispy shell — without the hassle of deep frying. Whether you’re serving it as a starter for a dinner party, a snack during game night, or a kid-approved appetizer, it delivers every time.
The recipe is endlessly adaptable, quick to make, and ideal for preparing ahead of time. Thanks to the air fryer, you can indulge in that satisfying crunch with far less oil and way less cleanup. So, if you’re looking to add a new staple to your recipe rotation — one that’s tasty, easy, and universally loved — Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli is it.
Now go grab your favorite ravioli and let your air fryer do the rest. Crispy comfort is just minutes away!