Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli

Introduction

Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli is a beloved appetizer that combines crispy, golden-brown breaded ravioli with a warm, gooey filling. These bite-sized delights are served with marinara sauce for dipping, making them an irresistible crowd-pleaser. Perfectly crispy on the outside and deliciously tender on the inside, this dish is a great addition to your appetizer lineup or as a fun snack.

I first made these when I was craving something from Olive Garden but didn’t want to go out. The result was fantastic—crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and the marinara sauce made it even better. They’re easy to prepare with just a few ingredients and a quick fry, and they make an impressive snack or appetizer for any occasion.

What’s great about these Toasted Ravioli is how simple they are to make, yet they feel like a special treat. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer or enjoying them with your family for a cozy meal at home, these golden, crunchy bites are sure to be a hit!

Perfect for:

• Family gatherings
• Game day snacks
• Appetizer platters
• Italian-inspired meals
• Kid-friendly treats

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli

Here’s why Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli will become a favorite in your household:

• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Enjoy the same taste as the Olive Garden classic without leaving your kitchen.
• Crispy and Golden-Brown: The breaded coating is perfectly crunchy, contrasting beautifully with the soft ravioli filling.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and simple steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or party food that everyone will enjoy.
• Customizable: Use your favorite ravioli, whether cheese-filled, meat-filled, or vegan options.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli:

• 1 package (9-12 oz) fresh or frozen ravioli (cheese or meat-filled)
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Ravioli: Fresh or frozen ravioli works well. Cheese-filled ravioli is the classic choice, but meat-filled or spinach-filled ravioli are also delicious options.
• Italian-Style Breadcrumbs: Pre-seasoned breadcrumbs save time and add flavor. Panko breadcrumbs can be used for extra crunch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory flavor to the breading. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results.
• Marinara Sauce: A warm marinara sauce is the perfect dipping companion for the crispy ravioli.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli:

Prepare the Breading Station:

1. Set Up Three Bowls:
   • Bowl 1: Combine Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
   • Bowl 2: Whisk the eggs and milk together until well combined.
   • Bowl 3: Leave empty for the breaded ravioli.
2. Prepare the Ravioli:
   • If using frozen ravioli, thaw it according to the package instructions.
   • Pat the ravioli dry with a paper towel to help the breading stick.

Bread the Ravioli:

3. Coat the Ravioli:
   • Dip each ravioli into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
   • Press the ravioli into the breadcrumb mixture, covering all sides.
   • Place the breaded ravioli on a plate or baking sheet.

Fry the Ravioli:

4. Heat the Oil:
   • In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature.
5. Fry the Ravioli:
   • Working in batches, carefully place the breaded ravioli into the hot oil.
   • Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serve:

6. Warm the Marinara Sauce:
   • Heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan or microwave until warm.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Transfer the toasted ravioli to a serving platter.
   • Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
   • Serve immediately with marinara sauce for dipping.

How to Serve Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli

Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As an Appetizer: Place on a platter with small dipping bowls of marinara sauce.
• For Parties: Arrange on a serving tray with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
• For Kids: Pair with a side of ranch dressing or their favorite dipping sauce.
• With a Salad: Serve alongside a Caesar salad or garden salad for a complete meal.
• With a Glass of Wine: Pair with a light red wine like Pinot Noir for a sophisticated touch.

Additional Tips for Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli

Here are some tips to ensure your Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli turns out perfectly:

• Use Fresh Ravioli: Fresh ravioli cooks quickly and evenly, making it ideal for this recipe.
• Keep the Oil Temperature Consistent: Maintaining the oil temperature ensures the ravioli fries evenly without absorbing too much oil.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the ravioli in small batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping.
• Air Fryer Option: For a healthier alternative, spray the breaded ravioli with cooking spray and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Recipe Variations for Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli

Here are 10 variations to try for Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli:

1. Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli: Use spinach-filled ravioli for a unique flavor twist.
2. Spicy Marinara: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
3. Pesto Dip: Serve with pesto sauce instead of marinara for a fresh, herby flavor.
4. Four Cheese Ravioli: Use a blend of cheese ravioli for extra cheesiness.
5. Herbed Breading: Mix fresh chopped herbs like parsley or basil into the breadcrumb mixture.
6. Gluten-Free Ravioli: Use gluten-free ravioli and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
7. Baked Toasted Ravioli: Bake breaded ravioli on a greased baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
8. Stuffed Jalapeño Ravioli: Add chopped jalapeños to the filling for a spicy surprise.
9. Vegan Option: Use vegan ravioli, plant-based milk, and vegan Parmesan.
10. Buffalo Sauce Dip: Pair with buffalo sauce instead of marinara for a tangy, spicy variation.

Freezing and Storage for Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli

• Freezing: Breaded, uncooked ravioli can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until firm, and transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen.
• Storage: Leftover toasted ravioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness.

Special Equipment for Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli

Here are some tools to make preparing Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli easier:

• Use fresh or frozen ravioli – Choose cheese, meat, or spinach ravioli for the best texture. If frozen, make sure to thaw them completely before frying.
• Coat ravioli well – For a crispy exterior, dip the ravioli in flour, egg wash, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Double coat for extra crunch.
• Season breadcrumbs – Add garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
• Use a deep-frying thermometer – To ensure the oil is at the right temperature (350–375°F) for frying, helping the ravioli to cook evenly and avoid being soggy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping and ensure each ravioli gets crispy.
• Use a light oil – Olive oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil are good options for frying. Avoid using heavy oils like coconut or sesame.
• Drain properly – Place fried ravioli on a paper towel-lined plate or cooling rack to absorb excess oil, keeping them crispy.
• Serve with marinara sauce – Serve your toasted ravioli with a warm marinara sauce for dipping, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce for a different twist.
• Garnish with Parmesan – After frying, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top for added flavor and presentation.
• Experiment with fillings – Try different ravioli fillings, like mushroom, lobster, or ricotta, for a unique take on the classic dish.

Frequently Asked Questions for Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli

1. Can I use frozen ravioli?
   Yes, but thaw them first and pat them dry before breading to ensure the coating sticks.
2. Can I bake these instead of frying?
   Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy.
3. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, bread the ravioli in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before frying.
5. What other sauces can I serve with these?
   Alfredo sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter are all delicious dipping options.

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Conclusion

Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli is a delightful appetizer that’s easy to make at home. Crispy, golden, and served with marinara sauce, these ravioli bites are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a family dinner, or looking for a fun snack, these toasted ravioli will quickly become a favorite!

This recipe is as simple to prepare as it is delicious, making it perfect for casual get-togethers or special occasions. With their crispy exterior and cheesy interior, these ravioli are sure to be enjoyed by everyone at the table.

I’d love to see how your Olive Garden Toasted Ravioli turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!