Description
The Rav-Ear-ioli is a creative and savory Halloween-themed appetizer featuring round meat-filled ravioli shaped and seasoned to resemble ears. These ravioli are either baked or pan-fried to achieve a golden, crispy texture, then served with a warm, zesty marinara-based dipping sauce. Perfect for spooky parties or themed dinners, this dish combines fun presentation with delicious Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Ravioli Ears
- 1 package (about 20–24 pieces) round meat ravioli (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dipping Sauce
- ½ cup marinara or spicy arrabbiata sauce
- 1 tablespoon cream or butter (optional for richness)
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat with a bit of olive oil if pan-frying. Pat the ravioli dry with a towel to remove excess moisture for better crisping. In a mixing bowl, toss the ravioli with olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese until each piece is well coated.
- Baking Method: Arrange the seasoned ravioli in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even golden color and slight puffing. The ravioli should be crispy and lightly toasted.
- Pan-Frying Method: Alternatively, heat a drizzle of olive oil in the preheated skillet and add the ravioli in batches. Fry each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they become golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce: While the ravioli cook, warm the marinara or spicy arrabbiata sauce in a small saucepan over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through. For a richer, smoother sauce, stir in cream or butter if desired.
- Serving: Arrange the crispy ravioli “ears” on a serving plate. Place the warm dipping sauce in a bowl at the center. For an extra spooky presentation, drizzle some sauce around the plate to mimic “blood.” Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of crisp ravioli and warm sauce.
Notes
- Using round ravioli is essential to best mimic the shape of ears.
- Cheese or spinach-filled ravioli can be substituted if preferred or for dietary preferences.
- For enhanced realism, lightly press a spoon into the center of each ravioli before cooking to create a subtle ear canal effect.
- Ensure ravioli are dry before coating and cooking to achieve optimal crispness.
- Watch closely while baking or frying to prevent overcooking and burning.
