Toasted Ravioli with Marinara Sauce
Highlighted under: Family Comfort Meals
Indulge in the irresistible crunch of toasted ravioli paired with a rich marinara sauce. This delightful appetizer is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Toasted Ravioli with Marinara Sauce is a beloved dish in Italian-American cuisine, originating from St. Louis. These crispy delights are filled with cheese or meat and are perfect for dipping in savory marinara sauce. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening, this recipe is sure to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crispy exterior with a cheesy, flavorful filling
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Great for sharing with friends and family
The Perfect Appetizer
Toasted ravioli is an appetizer that delivers both flavor and texture, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The combination of crispy breading and a cheesy filling creates a symphony of taste that is hard to resist. Whether you're hosting a party or simply enjoying a quiet evening, this dish elevates the dining experience, providing a delightful start to the meal.
Pairing toasted ravioli with marinara sauce not only enhances its flavor profile but also adds a comforting, familiar touch. This classic combination is reminiscent of Italian dining and brings warmth to your table. The vibrant sauce complements the rich filling of the ravioli, ensuring each bite is packed with deliciousness.
A Quick and Easy Recipe
One of the best aspects of this toasted ravioli recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delightful appetizer in no time. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
The straightforward breading process ensures that even novice cooks can master this dish. By setting up a simple assembly line with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, you can efficiently coat each ravioli. This hands-on approach not only helps you save time but also makes cooking a fun experience for everyone involved.
Ideal for Sharing
Toasted ravioli is perfect for sharing with friends and family. Its bite-sized nature makes it easy to enjoy while mingling, making it an ideal choice for parties and gatherings. The crispy exterior and cheesy filling are sure to impress your guests, encouraging them to come back for more.
Serving toasted ravioli as a shared appetizer can also create a warm and inviting atmosphere. It encourages conversation and connection as everyone dips their ravioli into the marinara sauce. This communal style of dining fosters a sense of togetherness, making your meal even more memorable.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your toasted ravioli:
For the Ravioli
- 1 package of refrigerated cheese ravioli
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying
For the Marinara Sauce
- 2 cups of marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients will help you create a delicious and satisfying dish!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your toasted ravioli:
Prepare the Marinara Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Ravioli
Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Dip each ravioli first in flour, then in egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Fry the Ravioli
Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded ravioli in batches. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Serve
Serve the toasted ravioli hot with the marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
Now you have a delicious plate of toasted ravioli ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Perfectly Toasted Ravioli
For the best results, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the ravioli. This will ensure a crispy texture and prevent the breading from absorbing too much oil. A good test is to drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it bubbles and sizzles, you’re ready to fry.
If you're looking to add more flavor to your breadcrumbs, consider mixing in some Italian herbs or spices. This small addition can elevate the dish further, giving each bite a burst of flavor that complements the cheese-filled ravioli.
Variations to Try
While cheese ravioli is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with different fillings. Meat-filled or spinach and ricotta ravioli can offer a new twist on this traditional recipe. Each variety will bring its unique flavor, enhancing your toasted ravioli experience.
For a healthier option, you can bake the ravioli instead of frying. Simply spray them with a light coating of oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown. This method retains the crispy texture while reducing the amount of oil used.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen ravioli?
Yes, frozen ravioli can be used. Just make sure to thaw them before breading.
→ What can I serve with toasted ravioli?
Toasted ravioli pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I bake the ravioli instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until crispy.
Toasted Ravioli with Marinara Sauce
Indulge in the irresistible crunch of toasted ravioli paired with a rich marinara sauce. This delightful appetizer is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Family Comfort Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Ravioli
- 1 package of refrigerated cheese ravioli
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying
For the Marinara Sauce
- 2 cups of marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Dip each ravioli first in flour, then in egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded ravioli in batches. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Serve the toasted ravioli hot with the marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 10g