Fried Cheese Ravioli
Step-by-Step Instructions
Thaw the Ravioli: Either thaw your frozen ravioli overnight in the refrigerator or boil them for a few minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels.
Prepare Your Dredging Station: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, kosher salt, and black pepper. In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined. In a third shallow bowl, mix the Italian breadcrumbs, panko, and 1/2 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese.
Heat the Oil: In a deep-sided skillet, pour in 3 to 4 cups of vegetable oil. Heat over medium-high until it reaches 325 degrees Fahrenheit (use a cooking thermometer for accuracy!).
Dredge the Ravioli: Take each thawed ravioli and first dredge it in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it well in the breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated ravioli on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Fry: Gently place 5 to 7 ravioli in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Drain: Once fried, move the ravioli to a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese while still hot and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
The beauty of Fried Cheese Ravioli lies in its versatility. Serve them with a side of marinara or alfredo sauce for dipping. Pair your crispy ravioli with a fresh green salad or sautéed vegetables to balance the richness. For a twist, consider topping them with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for some added heat or a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover Fried Cheese Ravioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their glorious crunch, it’s best to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave—just pop them in at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked, breaded ravioli. Just ensure they’re well-sealed to avoid freezer burn!
Helpful Cooking Tips
Don’t Overcrowd: When frying, always give each ravioli enough space in the oil so they cook evenly. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy ravioli.
Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on the oil’s temperature with a thermometer. If it’s too hot, the exterior will burn before the inside is cooked; too cool, and they’ll soak up too much oil.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Try these fun variations:
- Replace the cheese ravioli with spinach and ricotta ones for a bit of a twist.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
- For a spicier profile, include crushed red pepper flakes in the flour mix.
FAQs
How long do you need to fry the ravioli?
Fry the ravioli for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown.
Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Yes! If using fresh ravioli, they may require less cooking time, so keep an eye on them as they fry.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen before frying, provided they’re properly sealed.
Can I substitute the breadcrumbs?
Absolutely! You can use seasoned breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers for a different texture. Just make sure to adjust for seasoning accordingly.
How do I make these vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly since it uses cheese ravioli. Just ensure that your bread crumbs also don’t contain any animal products if you’re maintaining a strict vegetarian diet.
By following these tips and suggestions, your Fried Cheese Ravioli will not only taste amazing but also be a hit among family and friends! Happy cooking!
