Description
Crispy golden-brown fried ravioli bites stuffed with creamy mozzarella and ricotta cheese. These Italian-inspired appetizers are perfect for parties, game nights, and gatherings. Originally from St. Louis, these crowd-pleasing bites combine traditional pasta with an irresistible crunchy texture that will wow your guests.
Ingredients
Fresh pasta sheets or wonton wrappers
Mozzarella cheese, shredded (1 cup)
Ricotta cheese (1/2 cup)
Italian breadcrumbs (1 cup)
Large eggs, beaten (2 eggs)
Vegetable oil for frying (2 cups)
Fresh basil leaves, chopped (2 tablespoons)
Fresh parsley, chopped (1 tablespoon)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Mix ricotta and mozzarella cheese with chopped basil and parsley in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Cut pasta sheets into 3-inch squares or use wonton wrappers.
3. Place 1 tablespoon of cheese mixture in the center of each square.
4. Brush edges with beaten egg and fold to create sealed packets, pressing edges firmly.
5. Freeze assembled ravioli for 15 minutes to help maintain shape.
6. Heat vegetable oil to 375°F in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer.
7. Set up breading station: beaten eggs in one bowl, Italian breadcrumbs in another.
8. Dip each ravioli in beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
9. Fry ravioli in small batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
10. Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
11. Serve immediately while hot and crispy with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
For best results, freeze ravioli before breading to prevent bursting during frying.
Oil temperature is crucial – use a thermometer to maintain 375°F.
Don’t overcrowd the pot; fry in small batches for even cooking.
These can be made ahead and frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheat in oven at 375°F or air fryer at 350°F to maintain crispiness.
Try different cheese combinations like goat cheese and parmesan for variation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 pieces
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg