Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta Recipe

You know those moments when you bite into something familiar, but there’s a delightful twist? That’s exactly how it feels when you try Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta! Just like the irresistible version at Olive Garden, this crave-worthy appetizer transforms classic cheesy lasagna noodles into perfectly crispy, golden bites—with all the flavor, but less grease, thanks to the air fryer.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta recipe leans on a handful of classic Italian ingredients—each one playing its part to create that signature creamy, cheesy, and crispy bite. Every choice, from the cheeses to the breading, really shines in the final dish!

• Lasagna Noodles: Classic wide noodles work best; if they have ribbon edges, trim them for easier rolling and even cooking.
• Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese: Gives the filling its soft, creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty depth both inside the filling and in the crispy coating.
• Freshly Grated Romano Cheese: Lends a tangy punch, balancing all the creamy notes.
• Freshly Grated Asiago Cheese: Brings a bold, sharp note to the cheese blend—don’t skip it if you can help it!
• Freshly Grated Mozzarella Cheese: Melty stretch in every bite makes these irresistible.
• Italian Seasoning: Infuses that unmistakable herby, savory aroma and flavor.
• Large Eggs: Used in both the filling and for the crunchy breading.
• Italian Bread Crumbs or Panko: Bring the crisp! Panko will give you extra crunch, while Italian bread crumbs offer extra flavor.
• Olive Oil: Used to toast bread crumbs, adding authentic Italian richness.
• Finely Grated Parmesan (for batter): Melds into the bread crumbs for a savory, savory golden crust.
• Olive Oil Spray: Lets those fritta get golden in the air fryer, minus the deep-fry mess.
• Homemade Alfredo or Jarred Marinara Sauce: For the essential finishing dip—try both for the full Olive Garden effect!

Variations

One of the best things about Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta is how easy it is to reinvent! It’s a dream to swap in your favorite cheeses, make it vegetarian, or adapt it for gluten-free friends—don’t be afraid to put your personal spin on it.

• Spinach-Ricotta Fritta: Stir a handful of chopped fresh spinach (sautéed and squeezed dry) right into the cheese mixture for extra color and nutrients.
• Meaty Version: Add in some cooked, crumbled Italian sausage or ground beef to the cheese filling for a hearty twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free lasagna noodles and gluten-free panko for a GF-friendly selection—just as delicious!
• Different Sauces: Try a spicy arrabbiata, pesto, or even a garlic aioli for dipping—this recipe is flavor-flexible!

How to Make Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta

Step 1: Cook and Prep the Noodles

Start by boiling your lasagna noodles until they’re just al dente—don’t overcook, since they’ll have another round in the air fryer. Give them a gentle rinse under cold water, then lay them on a clean towel. If your noodles have those pretty ruffled edges, trim them off for neat, rollable strips (it’s worth the effort for picture-perfect rolls!).

Step 2: Make That Dreamy Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine one egg and all five cheeses, plus your Italian seasoning. Use a fork to mix until it’s creamy but still holds shape. The cheese blend is the heart of these Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta bites, so don’t be shy about using the freshest, most flavorful cheese you can find.

Step 3: Fill, Roll & Freeze!

Lay the noodles flat and spread a layer of the cheese filling over each one. Roll up tightly into 2-3” spiral shapes—they’ll look like adorable little cheesy logs. Place the rolls in a parchment-lined container and freeze for 1-2 hours. This chilling step is key: it prevents messy cheese spills and helps your fritta keep their shape while breading and air frying.

Step 4: Prepare the Crunchy Coating

While your lasagna rolls chill, beat two eggs in a shallow bowl for dredging. In another bowl, mix your bread crumbs (or panko) and two tablespoons of olive oil, microwaving for bursts of 30 seconds until they’re golden and fragrant. Stir in finely grated Parmesan—that’s where the ultra-savory crust comes from!

Step 5: Bread the Lasagna Rolls

Once chilled, dip each lasagna roll first in egg, then coat generously in the Parmesan-bread crumb mixture, gently pressing so every nook is covered. Shake off any excess. Now you’re ready to get crispy!

Step 6: Air Fry to Gorgeous Golden

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Spray the basket lightly with olive oil, then arrange fritta rolls in a single layer—don’t crowd them. Mist the tops with oil spray, cook for 8 minutes, then flip and cook another 6-8 minutes until the coating is deeply golden and gloriously crunchy. If they look dry mid-cook, a quick spritz of oil does the trick. Serve with generous bowls of marinara and Alfredo—this is what appetizer dreams are made of!

How to Serve Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta

Garnishes

A little shower of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds gorgeous green color and garden-fresh aroma, plus a final flurry of extra grated Parmesan takes these Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta from “yum” to “wow.” A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes also adds a touch of heat if you’re serving spice lovers.

Side Dishes

This appetizer is right at home next to a zesty tossed salad (Caesar is classic), a pile of garlic breadsticks, or a veggie antipasto platter. For a party platter, I love going big with both Alfredo and marinara sauces for dipping—so everyone gets their favorite!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your fritta bites stacked high on a wooden board, with little ramekins of sauce nestled between, or skewer them with toothpicks for cocktail-hour fun. For a true restaurant moment, swirl a spoonful of sauce on each plate and set a fritta right on top—total showstopper!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep leftover Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta fresh, let them cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container. They’ll stay crispest up to 2 days—just warm them back up to revive the crunch.

Freezing

Absolutely! Freeze breaded (uncooked) fritta on a tray until solid, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Air fry straight from frozen—just add a couple extra minutes to the cooking time for the ultimate make-ahead snack or party treat.

Reheating

For that irresistible crunch, place leftovers back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until piping hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving—they’ll turn soft. If you must, use a toaster oven for best results!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s a little bit impressive but oh-so-fun to make, Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta is your new secret weapon! There’s just something magical about that cheesy center wrapped in a golden, crispy shell. Give it a go—your family and friends will absolutely love it!

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