There is something incredibly satisfying about indulging in a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful twist on classic lasagna, and that’s exactly what the Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta Recipe delivers. Combining the familiar comfort of lasagna with the irresistible crunch of fried bites, this dish turns traditional pasta into finger-friendly, golden rolls. It’s perfect for parties, weeknight dinners, or anytime you crave something both nostalgic and exciting. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite ways to enjoy Italian flavors with a fun, crispy edge.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe might look like it has many components, but each one plays a vital role and comes together beautifully with simple steps. From creamy cheeses to perfectly cooked noodles, every ingredient contributes to the rich texture and irresistible taste of this lasagna fritta.
- Lasagna Noodles, 10 ounces: The base of your fritta rolls, cooked al dente for the perfect chewiness without falling apart.
- Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese, 15 ounces: Adds creamy richness and binds the filling together with a luscious texture.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese, ½ cup + ½ cup finely grated: Brings a nutty, savory sharpness that complements the milder cheeses and adds a golden crust when breaded.
- Freshly Grated Romano Cheese, ½ cup: Enhances the savory depth with its tangy, salty profile.
- Freshly Grated Asiago Cheese, ½ cup: Offers a slightly sweet, buttery flavor that layers beautifully with other cheeses.
- Freshly Grated Mozzarella Cheese, ½ cup: Provides the gooey, melty cheese feeling that lasagna lovers crave.
- Italian Seasoning, 2 tablespoons: Infuses the filling with vibrant, herbaceous notes typical of classic Italian cuisine.
- Large Eggs, 4 total: Two mixed into the filling for binding and two more for dipping the rolled noodles prior to breading.
- Italian Bread Crumbs or Panko, 1 ½ cups: Coats each roll, creating a crunchy exterior that holds up well in the air fryer.
- Olive Oil, 2 tablespoons: Mixed with breadcrumbs to add moisture and richness for a golden crust.
- Olive Oil Spray: Used to lightly coat the fritta before air frying for crispiness without excess grease.
- Canola Oil (optional): For those preferring pan-frying, providing a neutral flavor and perfect frying medium.
- Homemade Alfredo Sauce and Jar of Marinara Sauce: The perfect duo for dipping your fritta—creamy and tangy options to satisfy all tastes.
How to Make Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta Recipe
Step 1: Noodle Prep
Start by boiling your lasagna noodles until they are al dente. This means they should be tender but still firm enough to hold their shape when rolled. Once cooked, rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture and Roll
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, Romano, Asiago, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, and two eggs. Mix until smooth and well incorporated. Spread an even layer of this cheesy mixture onto each noodle. Carefully roll up each noodle, creating a tight cylinder. Place the rolls on a tray and freeze them until firm, which helps them hold together during breading and cooking.
Step 3: Make the Breading Batter
In one bowl, scramble the remaining two eggs. In another, combine the Italian breadcrumbs with olive oil and the finely grated Parmesan. This blend adds flavor and helps the coating turn a perfect golden brown in the air fryer.
Step 4: Bread the Lasagna Rolls
Dip each frozen lasagna roll first into the egg wash and then into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thorough coating. This step is essential for that crave-worthy crunch.
Step 5: Air Fry the Lasagna Fritta
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Spray the basket lightly with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated lasagna fritta rolls in the basket in a single layer, spray the tops with olive oil spray as well. Cook for about 8 minutes, then carefully flip each roll and continue cooking for another 6 to 8 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown all over.
Step 6: Alternative Pan-Frying Method
If you don’t have an air fryer, no worries. Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium heat, then fry each fritta roll for approximately 2 minutes per side or until golden and crisp. This method yields a classic fried texture with rich flavor.
How to Serve Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley sprinkle a pop of color and fresh flavor that beautifully contrasts the crispy, cheesy fritta. A light dusting of extra Parmesan adds an elegant finishing touch that looks as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed with tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread or a light Caesar salad also complements the rich flavors nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the fritta rolls vertically in a serving platter to showcase their spiral design, and provide both Alfredo and marinara sauces in small bowls for dipping. For a party, serve them on skewers or alongside a charcuterie board to elevate presentation and offer variety.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover lasagna fritta can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool completely before storing to maintain crispness when reheated.
Freezing
These fritta rolls freeze beautifully. After rolling and breading, lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 1 month. This makes a quick snack or meal ready whenever you want.
Reheating
For best results, reheat frozen or refrigerated fritta in the air fryer at 350°F for 4 to 6 minutes to restore their crispy crust. Avoid microwaving as it can make the breading soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular mozzarella instead of freshly grated?
Yes! Shredded mozzarella works just as well and melts nicely to give you that perfect cheesy pull. Freshly grated is preferred for texture but not mandatory.
Is it necessary to freeze the rolls before breading?
Freezing helps the rolls hold their shape during breading and cooking, especially in the air fryer. If you skip freezing, the filling might leak out, but careful handling can sometimes work.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular bread crumbs and noodles with gluten-free versions, and ensure your sauces are gluten-free as well to enjoy this dish without worries.
What sauces work best with lasagna fritta?
Both marinara and Alfredo sauces are classic choices that complement the cheesy interior and crispy exterior. You can also try pesto or spicy arrabbiata for a flavor twist.
How do I know when the lasagna fritta are done cooking?
You’ll see a golden-brown, crispy crust all around, and the cheeses inside should be melty and warm. If using a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 160°F for safety and cheesiness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to impress with comfort food that’s both fun and delicious, the Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta Recipe is your go-to. It brings the heartiness of lasagna into a crispy, portable bite that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying anytime. Give it a try, and you’ll soon see why it’s become a beloved recipe by anyone who loves Italian cooking with a crispy twist!
Print
Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 36 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta recipe transforms classic lasagna into a crispy, bite-sized treat perfect for appetizers or snacks. Cheese-stuffed lasagna noodles are rolled, breaded, and cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer for a healthier twist on the traditional fried version. Served with homemade Alfredo and marinara sauces, these frittas offer a delicious combination of creamy, cheesy filling and crunchy exterior.
Ingredients
Lasagna and Cheese Filling
- 10 ounces Lasagna Noodles (about 10 noodles)
- 15 ounces Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese
- ½ cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
- ½ cup Freshly Grated Romano Cheese
- ½ cup Freshly Grated Asiago Cheese
- ½ cup Freshly Grated Mozzarella Cheese
- 2 tablespoons Italian Seasoning
- 2 Large Eggs
Breading and Cooking
- 1 ½ cups Italian Bread Crumbs or Panko
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- ½ cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 2 Large Eggs (for dipping)
- Olive Oil Spray
- Canola Oil (for optional pan-frying)
Sauces
- Homemade Alfredo Sauce
- Jar of Marinara Sauce
Instructions
- Noodle Prep: Boil the lasagna noodles until they are al dente, then rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. In a large bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, Romano, Asiago, and mozzarella cheeses with Italian seasoning and two eggs, mixing thoroughly to create a rich filling.
- Assemble and Freeze: Spread an even layer of the cheese mixture over each noodle. Carefully roll up each noodle into a log shape. Place the rolled noodles on a tray and freeze until firm, making them easier to handle during the breading process.
- Batter Preparation: In a shallow dish, scramble two additional eggs. In a separate bowl, combine the Italian bread crumbs, olive oil, and finely grated Parmesan cheese to form the breading mixture.
- Bread the Lasagna Rolls: Dip each frozen lasagna roll first into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs well.
- Air Fryer Cooking Method: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the breaded lasagna frittas in the basket, making sure they don’t touch. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray. Cook for 8 minutes, then flip them and cook for another 6 to 8 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Serving: Remove the lasagna frittas from the air fryer and serve immediately with homemade Alfredo sauce and marinara sauce for dipping.
- Optional Pan-Fried Method: Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded lasagna frittas for about 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and serve with Alfredo and marinara sauces.
Notes
- Freezing the rolled noodles before breading helps maintain their shape during cooking.
- For a crispier coating, you can double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs before air frying.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, pan-frying in canola oil is a great alternative.
- Homemade Alfredo sauce complements the marinara sauce for a richer dipping experience.
- Make sure to spray the air fryer basket and tops of the frittas with oil to achieve a golden crust.
