Toasted ravioli is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that will be a hit at any party or gathering. This tantalizing dish originated in St. Louis, Missouri, and has quickly gained popularity across the United States for its crispy exterior, tender filling, and mouthwatering taste. What’s even better is that you can make this delectable appetizer using frozen ravioli, saving you time and effort in the kitchen. In this article, we will unlock the deliciousness of toasted ravioli and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make it at home.
Ingredients
To make toasted ravioli from frozen ravioli, you will need the following ingredients:
For the ravioli:
– 1 package of frozen ravioli (meat or cheese-filled)
– 2 cups of breadcrumbs
– 1 cup of flour
– 3 large eggs, beaten
– 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the dipping sauce:
– 1 cup of marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Now that we have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making toasted ravioli from frozen ravioli:
Step 1: Preparing the ravioli
Start by thawing the frozen ravioli according to the package instructions. Once thawed, pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial as it prevents the ravioli from becoming soggy during the cooking process.
Step 2: Breading the ravioli
In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, flour, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Taking one ravioli at a time, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs gently onto the ravioli to help them adhere.
Step 3: Freezing the breaded ravioli
Once all the ravioli are breaded, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure that they are not touching each other. At this stage, you have two options: you can either freeze them for later use or proceed with the cooking process. If you choose to freeze them, leave the tray in the freezer for about an hour until the ravioli are firm. Once frozen, you can transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for future use.
Step 4: Cooking the ravioli
To cook the toasted ravioli, you have two cooking methods: frying and baking. Each method yields delicious results, but let’s explore both options:
Frying method:
In a deep frying pan or pot, heat vegetable oil to approximately 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the breaded ravioli into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the ravioli for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Baking method:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the breaded ravioli on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small gap between each ravioli. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Making the dipping sauce
While the ravioli are cooking, you can prepare the dipping sauce. In a small saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Serving the toasted ravioli
Once the ravioli are cooked and the dipping sauce is ready, it’s time to serve this mouthwatering appetizer. Arrange the toasted ravioli on a platter and place a small bowl of the dipping sauce in the center. You can garnish the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion
Toasted ravioli from frozen ravioli is a convenient and incredibly delicious appetizer that will surely impress your family and friends. Whether you fry or bake them, the end result is a plate full of golden, crispy, and flavorful ravioli that will disappear within minutes. With just a few simple steps, you can unlock the deliciousness of toasted ravioli and bring a taste of St. Louis into your own home. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow our step-by-step guide, and enjoy this delightful dish with your loved ones.