Baked Crispy Parmesan Ravioli Recipe

This Baked Crispy Parmesan Ravioli recipe brings together the comfort of Italian pasta with the satisfying crunch of a crispy coating, all baked to golden perfection. Baked crispy ravioli makes an irresistible appetizer or a fun dinner option, and it’s much lighter than the traditional deep-fried version. This recipe will guide you through every step, from preparing the ravioli to baking them with a crispy, cheesy, and savory Parmesan coating. Serve these with a side of marinara or your favorite dipping sauce for a meal or snack that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthier Option: Baked, not fried, so you get the delicious crunch without the extra oil.
2. Easy to Make: Perfect for quick family dinners, gatherings, or even as a fun snack.
3. Kid-Friendly: Crispy ravioli is a favorite with kids and adults alike—think of it as a fun twist on pasta.
4. Customizable: Use cheese ravioli, meat-filled, or any type you prefer; the coating is versatile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Thaw the Ravioli: If using frozen ravioli, let it thaw according to package directions. Pat it dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, as this will help the coating stick.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Coating

1. Make the Parmesan Coating: In a mixing bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix the ingredients evenly.
2. Whisk the Eggs: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. This will serve as the binder that helps the Parmesan mixture stick to the ravioli.

Step 3: Coat the Ravioli

1. Dip in Egg Mixture: Using tongs, dip each ravioli into the egg mixture, coating it fully. Allow any excess egg to drip off.
2. Dredge in Parmesan Mixture: Transfer the ravioli to the bowl with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Make sure each ravioli is fully covered for maximum crispiness.
3. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place each coated ravioli on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.

Step 4: Bake the Ravioli

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the ravioli are golden brown and crispy. Flip the ravioli halfway through baking to ensure an even, crispy coating on both sides.
2. Optional Broil: For extra crispiness, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Plate the Ravioli: Transfer the baked ravioli to a serving platter. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
2. Serve with Marinara: Warm up some marinara sauce for dipping, and serve the crispy ravioli hot for the best texture.

Tips for the Best Baked Crispy Parmesan Ravioli

1. Use Panko for Extra Crunch: Panko breadcrumbs yield a lighter, crispier texture than traditional breadcrumbs.
2. Keep an Eye on Broiling: The broil setting is a great trick for crisping, but it can burn quickly. Check frequently if you decide to use it.
3. Serve Immediately: For the crispiest texture, enjoy these baked ravioli right out of the oven.
4. Try Different Ravioli Fillings: Cheese ravioli works wonderfully, but meat or spinach-filled ravioli adds a unique twist.
5. Freeze Leftovers: If you make extra, freeze the baked ravioli in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven to retain the crispiness.

Health Benefits of Baked Ravioli

1. Less Oil: Baking instead of frying significantly reduces the oil content, making these crispy bites lower in fat.
2. Protein and Calcium: Cheese ravioli provides protein and calcium, essential for bone and muscle health.
3. Reduced Calories: Baked ravioli is a lighter alternative to traditional fried ravioli, making it suitable for those who are calorie-conscious.

Variations and Additions

1. Add a Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the Parmesan mixture for a bit of heat.
2. Try Different Sauces: Serve with Alfredo, garlic aioli, or pesto for a new flavor experience.
3. Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ravioli for a gluten-free version.
4. Herbed Breadcrumbs: For an extra flavor boost, add fresh herbs like chopped rosemary or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ravioli and refrigerate them on the baking sheet for up to 24 hours. Bake them just before serving to keep them crispy.

2. Can I use frozen ravioli?
Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and pat them dry to ensure the coating sticks.

3. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano for a similar taste. For a milder flavor, shredded mozzarella can also work.

4. How can I make this recipe vegan?
Use vegan ravioli, such as a vegetable-filled variety, and replace Parmesan with vegan cheese and the egg wash with a flax egg wash (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water).

Serving Suggestions

1. Pair with a Salad: Serve the ravioli with a fresh Caesar or arugula salad to balance the meal with greens.
2. Add More Dipping Sauces: Serve a variety of dipping sauces for a fun appetizer—try marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
3. Serve with Wine: If you’re making these as a dinner or appetizer for adults, pair them with a crisp white wine or light red.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Crispy Parmesan Ravioli recipe is the perfect solution when you crave the crunch of fried ravioli but want a lighter option. With a crispy, cheesy coating and endless options for dipping, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering, family meal, or cozy night in. Easy to make and packed with flavor, these ravioli bites prove that baked can be just as satisfying as fried!

Yield: 4

Baked Crispy Parmesan Ravioli Recipe

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This Baked Crispy Parmesan Ravioli recipe brings together the comfort of Italian pasta with the satisfying crunch of a crispy coating, all baked to golden perfection. Baked crispy ravioli makes an irresistible appetizer or a fun dinner option, and it’s much lighter than the traditional deep-fried version. This recipe will guide you through every step, from preparing the ravioli to baking them with a crispy, cheesy, and savory Parmesan coating. Serve these with a side of marinara or your favorite dipping sauce for a meal or snack that's sure to impress.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 package (9-12 oz) fresh or frozen cheese ravioli
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned or plain)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
• Cooking spray or olive oil (for baking)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil.
   
2. Prepare Coating:
   In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
   
3. Prepare Egg Wash:
   In another bowl, beat the eggs to make an egg wash.
   
4. Coat the Ravioli:
   Dip each ravioli in the egg wash, allowing excess egg to drip off, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Place each coated ravioli on the prepared baking sheet.
   
5. Bake:
   Spray the tops of the ravioli with a little cooking spray or a light drizzle of olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the ravioli are golden and crispy.
   
6. Serve:
   Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

• Make It Extra Crispy: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Add Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture if you like a little kick.