Spicy Fried Ravioli with Jalapeño Cream Sauce: A Crispy, Creamy Delight

When it comes to crispy comfort food with a punch of heat, nothing quite matches up to Spicy Fried Ravioli with Jalapeño Cream Sauce. This dish takes your average ravioli and cranks it up several delicious notches. Whether you're looking for frozen ravioli recipes easy enough for weeknights, a showstopping fried ravioli appetizer, or simply cheap dinners for a family that everyone will adore, this recipe checks all the boxes. With the crispy, golden fried pasta and a cool, tangy sauce that perfectly balances the spice, this is destined to become one of your new favorite easy dinner recipes for family nights.

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Spicy Fried Ravioli with Jalapeño Cream Sauce

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine American, Italian

Servings 6

Equipment

• Deep Fryer or Heavy-Duty Pot A dedicated deep fryer makes things easier, but a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven works perfectly for deep fried ravioli.
• Tongs Essential for safely moving ravioli in and out of the hot oil.
• Paper towels For draining excess oil.
• Mixing bowls For prepping the breading and sauce.
• Blender (optional) To make the sauce ultra-smooth if you prefer.
• Air Fryer (alternative) For a lighter version, air fryer ravioli recipes are a fantastic choice.

Ingredients

  

For the Spicy Fried Ravioli

• 1 20-ounce package frozen cheese ravioli (or your favorite ravioli filling ideas like spinach and ricotta)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Jalapeño Cream Sauce

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 fresh jalapeños seeded and finely diced
• 1 clove garlic minced
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

• Fresh chopped cilantro
• Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

 

Prepare the Ravioli

1. If using frozen ravioli, cook them according to the package directions but undercook slightly so they stay firm (an important tip for deep fried ravioli frozen to prevent bursting). Drain well and pat dry.

Set Up Breading Station

1. Pour buttermilk into one shallow bowl. In another, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Dip each ravioli first into buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.

Fry the Ravioli

1. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in your pot or fryer to 350°F. Fry ravioli in small batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with tongs and drain on paper towels.

Make the Jalapeño Cream Sauce

1. While ravioli fry, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, diced jalapeños, minced garlic, lime juice, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. For an ultra-smooth consistency, blend it for about 30 seconds.

Serve

1. Pile the fried ravioli onto a platter, drizzle with jalapeño cream sauce, and sprinkle with cilantro and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve additional sauce on the side for dipping!

Pairings

Spicy Fried Ravioli pairs wonderfully with a variety of easy food recipes that can round out your meal. Consider a crisp arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a light contrast, or roasted vegetables for a hearty side. For drinks, a cold beer like a pale ale or a citrusy IPA complements the spice beautifully. If you prefer wine, go for a semi-sweet Riesling or a chilled Lambrusco.

For a full spread, you can add other meal ideas like garlic breadsticks, antipasto platters, or even a quick tomato basil soup. Together, these create an impressive yet accessible feast that's ideal for easy dinner recipes for family gatherings.

FAQs

1. What kind of ravioli should I use?

For this fried ravioli recipe, frozen cheese ravioli is a classic and convenient choice. However, if you're feeling ambitious, homemade ravioli dough can make this dish even more special. Just be sure your ravioli are well-sealed and firm before frying.

2. Can I use different fillings?

Absolutely! Some popular ravioli filling ideas include spinach and ricotta, beef, sausage, or even lobster. Each brings its own unique flavor to the dish. If using meat-filled ravioli, ensure they're fully cooked beforehand.

3. Can I air fry the ravioli?

Yes! If you prefer a lighter option, air fryer ravioli recipes are fantastic. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F, spray the breaded ravioli with oil, and cook for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fried ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

5. Can I make these ahead of time?

You can bread the ravioli up to a few hours ahead of time and keep them refrigerated until you're ready to fry. However, for best results, fry them just before serving.

6. What's the difference between fried ravioli and toasted ravioli?

"Toasted ravioli" typically refers to deep fried ravioli that originated in St. Louis. Despite the name "toasted," the ravioli are indeed deep-fried until golden and crispy.

7. Can I use fresh ravioli?

Yes! If using fresh ravioli, there's no need to pre-cook them. Just coat and fry directly. Fresh ravioli cook faster, so keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.

8. What's the best oil for frying?

Vegetable oil or canola oil are great choices because they have high smoke points and neutral flavors.

9. Is it expensive to make?

Not at all! This is one of those cheap dinners for a family where you get an impressive result without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s perfect for serving at parties or family gatherings.

10. Could I add more spice?

Of course! Feel free to add extra jalapeño slices to the sauce or even sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb coating for more heat.