
Transform ordinary ravioli into an irresistible appetizer with this toasted ravioli recipe. The pasta pillows are coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and fried until golden brown, creating a delightful contrast of textures - a crispy shell giving way to tender pasta and rich filling. Originally popularized in St. Louis restaurants, this elevated take on classic ravioli has become a beloved party staple.
Essential Ingredients
- Frozen ravioli: Use directly from frozen - choose cheese, meat, or vegetable filled
- All-purpose flour: Creates the base coating layer
- Beaten eggs: Acts as the binding agent for breading
- Italian breadcrumbs: Provides the crispy exterior coating
- Seasonings: Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt and pepper
- Vegetable oil: For deep frying at high temperature

Preparation Method
Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Keep one hand for wet ingredients and one for dry to prevent clumping. Coat each ravioli first in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Heat oil to 350°F in a heavy-bottomed pot. Fry ravioli in small batches until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil. Season immediately with salt while hot.
Serving Suggestions
Serve immediately while crispy, accompanied by warm marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. These pair wonderfully with other Italian appetizers or can stand alone as a hearty snack.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover toasted ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness. For make-ahead preparation, bread the ravioli and freeze uncooked on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 1 month.

Frequently Asked Questions
- → Will fresh ravioli work?
- You can use fresh, but frozen holds up better when frying.
- → Can I make these in an air fryer?
- Definitely! Set your air fryer to 370°F and cook for 8-10 minutes. Flip them halfway through.
- → What are the best dipping sauces?
- Marinara is a classic favorite, but you can also use ranch, alfredo, or even pesto.
- → Can I prepare these in advance?
- They’re best eaten fresh, but you can warm them up in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
- → What kind of ravioli works well?
- Both cheese and meat-filled ravioli are great. Smaller ravioli tend to be easier to handle.