If you adore every comforting bite of traditional lasagna but crave a crispy, handheld twist, then you are absolutely going to fall in love with this Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta Recipe. Imagine perfectly al dente lasagna noodles filled with a luscious blend of ricotta, Parmesan, Romano, Asiago, and mozzarella cheeses, rolled up, breaded, and air fried to a golden, crunchy perfection. It’s like your favorite Italian feast reinvented as a crispy, cheesy, saucy delight that’s perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself. The ease of using an air fryer means less mess and less time in the kitchen, all while delivering that irresistible crunch with tender, gooey cheesy layers inside. This recipe will quickly become your go-to when you want a comforting, flavorful dish that excites every sense.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy in making this Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of rich flavor, luxurious texture, and beautiful color, making sure every bite is memorable.
- 10 ounces Lasagna Noodles: These form the essential base and structure, cooked al dente to hold their shape.
- 15 ounces Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese: Adds creamy, mild richness that binds the filling perfectly.
- ½ cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Boosts the savory depth with sharp, nutty notes.
- ½ cup Freshly Grated Romano Cheese: Brings a bold, salty punch to the cheese blend.
- ½ cup Freshly Grated Asiago Cheese: Offers a slightly sweet and tangy dimension.
- ½ cup Freshly Grated Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, stretchy texture everyone loves.
- 2 tablespoons Italian Seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that infuse the filling with Italian charm.
- 2 Large Eggs: Help bind the cheesy filling and assist with breading.
- 1 ½ cups Italian Bread Crumbs or Panko: Provide the crispy coating for that irresistible crunch.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Brushed into the breadcrumb mixture for golden roasting crispiness.
- ½ cup Finely Grated Parmesan: Mixed into the breadcrumbs for extra flavor boost in the crust.
- Olive Oil Spray: To evenly coat the fritta before air frying for a perfect crisp.
- Canola Oil: Optional, if you decide to pan-fry instead of air-frying.
- Homemade Alfredo Sauce and Jar of Marinara Sauce: Serve alongside for dipping or drizzling, enhancing every bite.
How to Make Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Lasagna Noodles
Start by boiling your lasagna noodles in salted water until just al dente so they remain firm enough to roll without tearing. Once cooked, rinse them under cool water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Lay them out flat and get ready for the cheesy filling that will bring all the magic.
Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, Romano, Asiago, and mozzarella cheeses with the Italian seasoning and two eggs. This mixture should be smooth yet thick, bursting with a blend of sharp and creamy flavors that will melt beautifully inside the rolls.
Step 3: Assemble and Roll
Generously spread the cheese filling evenly over each noodle strip. Carefully roll them up like little cheesy cigars, making sure the filling stays inside. Place the finished rolls on a tray and pop them into the freezer briefly—this step is key to keeping their shape intact when breading.
Step 4: Create the Breading Batter
Whisk together two eggs in one bowl. In another, mix the olive oil with bread crumbs and finely grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture will create the perfect crispy shell around your lasagna rolls, adding indispensable texture and flavor.
Step 5: Bread the Lasagna Rolls
Dip each frozen lasagna roll first into the beaten eggs, coating fully, then roll them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick well. This double coating guarantees a beautifully crisp exterior after cooking.
Step 6: Air Fry Your Lasagna Fritta
Spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded rolls in a single layer without overcrowding. Give the tops a light spray as well. Cook at 400°F for about 8 minutes, then flip each roll and cook for an additional 6 to 8 minutes until the crust is golden and crunchy, with the cheese inside luxuriously melted.
Step 7: Alternative Cooking Method — Pan Frying
If you prefer traditional frying, heat about two tablespoons of canola oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded rolls for about 2 minutes on each side until they develop a perfect golden brown crust. Drain briefly on a paper towel before serving.
How to Serve Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil leaves adds vibrant color and fresh herbal notes that brighten the rich, cheesy flavors. A dusting of additional grated Parmesan on top is always a crowd-pleaser.
Side Dishes
Pair your Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta Recipe with a crisp green salad or garlic roasted vegetables to balance the indulgence. A bowl of marinara or creamy Alfredo sauce on the side invites irresistible dipping fun and extra flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the lasagna fritta on long skewers with alternating roasted cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves for an elegant appetizer platter. Or slice into smaller bite-sized pieces for party finger food, perfect for sharing and sampling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cooked lasagna fritta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It maintains its crispness surprisingly well when reheated properly.
Freezing
For make-ahead convenience, freeze the rolled and breaded fritta before air frying. Wrap tightly and freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. This way, you can enjoy this treat anytime without the prep work.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-crisp crunch, reheat your leftovers in the air fryer at 375°F for 5 to 7 minutes, flipping halfway through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe?
It’s best to use regular lasagna noodles boiled until al dente for the ideal texture and rollability. No-boil noodles tend to be too soft and may not hold together well during the breading and cooking process.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I bake these instead?
Baking is an option but may not achieve the same crispy crust as air frying or pan frying. If you bake, use a high temperature (around 425°F), brush with olive oil, and bake on a wire rack to help crisp up the coating.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free ones and use gluten-free bread crumbs. Just ensure all other ingredients, including sauces, are gluten-free certified for the best results.
What sauces go best with Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta Recipe?
Traditional marinara is a classic choice, but creamy Alfredo or a garlicky basil pesto work beautifully too. Having a couple of dipping sauces adds variety and makes each bite exciting.
How long can I freeze the prepared but uncooked fritta?
You can freeze the breaded, uncooked lasagna fritta for up to one month without sacrificing flavor or texture. Just thaw slightly before air frying to ensure even cooking.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta Recipe enough if you’re looking to wow your family or guests with something both comforting and fun. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy all the cheesy goodness of lasagna with an addictive crispy crust, and the air fryer makes it effortless. Once you taste these golden, cheesy rolls dipped in marinara or Alfredo, you’ll understand why this recipe quickly becomes a household favorite. So grab your ingredients and give it a go—you’re in for a real treat!
Print
Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta Recipe
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 36 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A crispy and cheesy twist on classic lasagna, this Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta recipe features rolled lasagna noodles filled with a rich blend of ricotta, Parmesan, Romano, Asiago, and mozzarella cheeses, seasoned with Italian herbs. The rolls are breaded, air fried to golden perfection, and served with homemade Alfredo and marinara sauces for a deliciously indulgent appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
Lasagna Rolls
- 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
- 1½ cups Italian bread crumbs or panko
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, scrambled
Frying & Cooking
- Olive oil spray
- Canola oil (for pan-frying option)
Sauces
- Homemade Alfredo sauce
- Jar of marinara sauce
Instructions
- Noodle Prep: Boil the lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. In a bowl, mix together the ricotta, Parmesan, Romano, Asiago, and mozzarella cheeses along with the Italian seasoning and two eggs. Spread this cheese mixture evenly over each noodle, then carefully roll the noodles up and place them in the freezer for at least an hour to firm up.
- Prepare the Breading: In one bowl, scramble two eggs. In another bowl, combine the Italian breadcrumbs (or panko) with olive oil and the finely grated Parmesan cheese to make a moist, flavorful breading mixture. This will help achieve a crispy exterior.
- Bread the Lasagna Rolls: Dip each frozen cheese-filled lasagna roll first into the scrambled eggs, making sure they’re fully coated, then dredge them in the breadcrumb mixture to cover completely.
- Air Fryer Cooking Method: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange the breaded lasagna fritta rolls in the basket without overcrowding. Spray the tops with olive oil spray for extra crispness. Cook for 8 minutes, then carefully flip each fritta and continue cooking for another 6 to 8 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Plate the fritta rolls and serve immediately with warm homemade Alfredo sauce and marinara sauce for dipping or drizzling.
- Alternative Pan-Fried Option: Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded lasagna rolls for about 2 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and serve with the Alfredo and marinara sauces.
Notes
- Freezing the rolled noodles before breading helps maintain their shape and improves the breading adhesion.
- You can use store-bought Alfredo and marinara sauces for convenience if homemade is not available.
- For a crispier finish in the air fryer, do not overcrowd the basket to allow even air circulation.
- The recipe yields about 10 servings, perfect as an appetizer or party snack.
