Butter-Toasted Ravioli – A Crispy, Cheesy Delight!

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butter-Toasted Ravioli is quick to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and wonderfully versatile. With a crispy exterior and cheesy filling, it’s a satisfying comfort food that’s simple enough for weeknights yet elegant enough to serve at gatherings. The buttery garlic seasoning combined with golden Parmesan makes each bite irresistibly savory, and it pairs beautifully with marinara dipping sauce. Plus, it’s customizable with different ravioli fillings or added spices.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

refrigerated or frozen cheese ravioli
unsalted butter
olive oil
garlic powder
onion powder
red pepper flakes (optional)
grated Parmesan cheese
salt
black pepper
fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
marinara sauce (for serving)

Directions

1. Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ravioli and cook according to package instructions (about 5–7 minutes for fresh, longer if frozen). Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Butter Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil. Add garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Toast the Ravioli: Add the drained ravioli to the skillet, making sure each piece is coated in the butter mixture. Let them cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until golden on one side, then flip and toast the other side for another 3–4 minutes.
4. Add Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the ravioli and gently toss. Let the cheese melt for about 1 minute to coat the pasta evenly.
5. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the ravioli to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Meat Ravioli: Substitute cheese ravioli with beef, sausage, or chicken-filled versions for a heartier dish.
• Spinach & Ricotta: Add extra flavor with spinach-stuffed ravioli.
• Herb-Infused Butter: Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme in the butter mixture for an aromatic twist.
• Crispy Breadcrumb Finish: Toss toasted ravioli in seasoned breadcrumbs before the cheese step for an added crunch.
• Air Fryer Option: Instead of pan-frying, cook the ravioli in an air fryer at 375°F for 8–10 minutes.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix in shredded mozzarella with Parmesan for gooey texture.
• Lemon Zest: Add a touch of lemon zest for a bright flavor contrast.
• Dipping Variety: Serve with Alfredo, pesto, or garlic aioli in place of marinara.
• Mini Ravioli Bites: Use smaller ravioli for party-sized bites and easier sharing.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat until crisp again, or place them in an oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may soften the crispy texture. For longer storage, freeze the cooked ravioli in a single layer, then transfer to a container. Reheat from frozen in a skillet or oven until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen ravioli directly?

It’s best to boil frozen ravioli first before toasting to ensure they cook through properly.

What type of ravioli works best for this recipe?

Cheese ravioli is traditional, but any savory filling like spinach, mushroom, or meat works well.

Can I use store-bought toasted ravioli?

This recipe is for making toasted ravioli from scratch, but you can still use pre-made toasted ravioli and re-toast in the skillet for extra flavor.

How do I keep the ravioli from sticking to the skillet?

Make sure there’s enough butter and oil, and avoid moving them too early—let them crisp before flipping.

Is it necessary to add both butter and olive oil?

Yes, the combination offers the rich flavor of butter and the higher heat tolerance of olive oil for perfect toasting.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can substitute plant-based ravioli, vegan butter, and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

What side dishes pair well with this?

Serve with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this ahead of time?

The ravioli can be cooked and stored, then toasted just before serving for best texture.

Does this work as a main dish?

Absolutely. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main, especially with a salad or soup on the side.

What can I do if I don’t have marinara sauce?

Use another dip like pesto, Alfredo, or even a spicy arrabbiata for variety.

Conclusion

Butter-Toasted Ravioli is a simple yet irresistible dish that delivers bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. It transforms everyday ravioli into something extraordinary with minimal effort and ingredients you likely already have. Whether served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress with its crispy, cheesy goodness. Give it a try and enjoy every golden bite.

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