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Air Fryer Five Cheese Lasagna Fritta

4 Mins read
Golden and crispy Air Fryer Five Cheese Lasagna Fritta garnished with parsley and served with marinara dipping sauce.

Crispy Lasagna Rolls with Melty Cheese Goodness—Made Easy in the Air Fryer!

Move over classic lasagna—there’s a new comfort food favorite in town! These Air Fryer Five Cheese Lasagna Fritta rolls are crispy, cheesy, golden-brown bites of heaven. Whether you’re craving a restaurant-style appetizer, a creative twist on Italian dinner night, or just looking for family dinner ideas with the air fryer, this dish will check every box.

It’s inspired by the beloved Olive Garden fried lasagna, but made lighter and easier using the air fryer instead of deep-frying. Packed with FIVE types of cheese, coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, and cooked to crunchy perfection, these lasagna roll-ups are a delicious way to rethink your pasta game.


Table of Contents

  1. What Is Lasagna Fritta?
  2. Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Lasagna Recipe
  3. Ingredients You’ll Need
  4. Step-by-Step Instructions
  5. Tips for Success
  6. Sauce Options & Toppings
  7. Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
  8. Recipe Variations
  9. Serving Ideas: Make It a Full Meal
  10. Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta FAQs
  11. Final Thoughts + Hashtags

What Is Lasagna Fritta?

If you’re unfamiliar with lasagna fritta, think of it as the lovechild of fried mozzarella sticks and lasagna. Traditionally served at Olive Garden, this appetizer uses cooked lasagna noodles that are filled, rolled, breaded, and deep-fried until golden and crispy. The result? A crunchy outside and ooey-gooey cheesy inside that’s totally addictive.

By using an air fryer, we transform this indulgent dish into a healthier air fryer lasagna recipe—without sacrificing flavor or texture.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside
  • No deep-frying mess
  • Perfect for entertaining, snacking, or dinner
  • Uses leftover lasagna noodles creatively
  • Great for both kids and adults
  • Customizable with fillings and sauces

If you’re asking what are creative things to do with lasagna noodles?, this is the ultimate answer!


Ingredients for Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta

For the Cheese Filling:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup provolone cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan
  • ½ cup feta cheese or Romano (for a sharp, tangy edge)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

🌿 Tip: Use full-fat cheeses for the best melt and flavor.

For the Lasagna Rolls:

  • 8–10 cooked lasagna noodles, al dente
  • 1 cup marinara or spaghetti sauce, for dipping or drizzling

For the Coating:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs or panko
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • Olive oil spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook and Cool the Noodles

Bring salted water to a boil, cook lasagna noodles until al dente (firm, not soft). Drain and lay flat on parchment paper or a lightly oiled tray. This prevents them from sticking.

2. Make the Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, feta, egg, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy. You can spoon it on or use a piping bag to make rolling easier.

3. Fill and Roll the Noodles

Spread or pipe 2–3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture evenly along each noodle. Roll from one end to the other like a jelly roll. You should get a tight spiral with cheese in every bite.

🧀 Optional: Add a tiny spoon of pesto or sun-dried tomato paste before rolling for extra flavor.

4. Set Up Your Breading Station

  • Bowl 1: Flour
  • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
  • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs + garlic powder + Italian seasoning

Dip each roll into the flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Make sure all sides are evenly coated. Gently press breadcrumbs so they stick.

5. Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Spray your air fryer basket lightly with oil. Place the rolls inside, leaving room for air circulation. Spray the tops with olive oil.

Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray again after flipping to enhance browning.

🔄 Air fry in batches if needed—overcrowding prevents crisping.

6. Serve Hot with Sauce

Plate your lasagna fritta warm, either with marinara drizzled on top or served on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan.


Tips for the Best Fried Lasagna Rolls

  • Use day-old or cold noodles They’re easier to roll and won’t tear.
  • Don’t skip the egg in the filling – It helps bind the cheese.
  • Stick to al dente noodles – Overcooked noodles fall apart.
  • Breadcrumbs matter – Panko gives extra crunch, but Italian-style brings more flavor.
  • Flip halfway – Ensures even browning on all sides.

Sauce & Topping Options

Sauces:

  • Classic marinara (always a winner)
  • Creamy Alfredo sauce
  • Spicy arrabbiata sauce
  • Garlic butter + fresh herbs
  • Basil pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto

Toppings:

  • Grated Parmesan or Romano
  • Red chili flakes
  • Fresh chopped parsley or basil
  • Cracked black pepper
  • Drizzle of balsamic glaze

These elevate your crispy lasagna fritta from snack to gourmet experience.


Storage, Reheating & Freezing

Storing:

Cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

  • Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 4–6 minutes until hot and crispy again.
  • Avoid microwaving—it makes the coating soggy.

Freezing:

  • Roll and bread the lasagna fritta as usual.
  • Freeze on a tray for 1 hour, then transfer to freezer bags.
  • Air fry from frozen at 360°F for 12–15 minutes.

Great for make-ahead party appetizers or busy weeknight dinners.


Variations to Try

🔥 Buffalo-Style Lasagna Fritta

Toss cooked rolls in buffalo sauce, serve with ranch or blue cheese dip.

🌱 Spinach & Cheese Version

Mix sautéed spinach into the cheese filling for a veggie boost.

🍗 Chicken Alfredo Fritta

Add shredded rotisserie chicken to the cheese mix and serve with Alfredo.

🌶️ Spicy Pepper Jack Fritta

Replace provolone with pepper jack and add chopped jalapeños for heat.

🧀 Vegan Option

Use dairy-free cheeses and an egg substitute like flax egg or aquafaba. Vegan panko works great.


Make It a Full Meal: What to Serve With Lasagna Fritta

Turn this appetizer into a main course with these pairings:

  • Simple arugula or Caesar salad
  • Garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks
  • Steamed or roasted broccoli, zucchini, or carrots
  • Creamy tomato soup or minestrone
  • Glass of red wine or sparkling Italian soda

This dish is flexible enough to be the star of a family dinner or part of an Italian-themed dinner party.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use no-boil noodles?

No. Oven-ready noodles are too stiff and will crack when rolling. Always use traditional lasagna noodles.

Can I deep fry instead of air frying?

Yes—but you’ll need to heat oil to 350°F and fry for 2–3 minutes. Air frying is less oily and just as crispy.

How many does this recipe serve?

This recipe makes 8–10 fritta rolls. Serves 4–5 as a side or 2–3 as a main dish.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare and bread them in advance, then refrigerate or freeze. Air fry just before serving.


Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Five Cheese Lasagna Fritta is more than a meal—it’s an experience. It’s crispy, cheesy, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re looking to recreate restaurant favorites at home or searching for things to do with lasagna noodles, this recipe delivers flavor and fun in every bite.

Make it for game night. Make it for a cozy dinner. Make it for yourself, just because. However you serve it, it’s going to be a hit.

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