Name: Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta (Olive Garden Copycat)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: Lasagna noodles (cooked and chilled); Marinara sauce; Ricotta cheese; Mozzarella cheese; Parmesan cheese; 1 egg (beaten); Breadcrumbs (seasoned); Italian seasoning; Oil spray; Salt and pepper

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If you’ve ever found yourself craving that irresistible crispy, cheesy delight served at Olive Garden, it’s time to bring the magic home with this Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta (Olive Garden Copycat). This recipe transforms traditional lasagna into crunchy, golden bites using an air fryer, making it a quick and healthier version without sacrificing any of that rich, comforting flavor you love. Ready to dive into a plateful of cheese-stuffed joy with an easy method and delicious results? Let’s get cooking!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crunchy meets cheesy: The air fryer gives the lasagna fritta a perfectly crispy crust that’s irresistibly satisfying.
Quick and easy: Unlike traditional lasagna, this recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight indulgences.
Healthier indulgence: Using an air fryer reduces the oil needed, saving calories without losing flavor.
Family-friendly: A fun twist that kids and adults alike will devour eagerly.
Copycat perfection: Captures the essence of Olive Garden’s favorite appetizer with simple ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta (Olive Garden Copycat) keeps things straightforward with pantry staples and fresh essentials. Each ingredient plays a vital role in balancing that crispy, cheesy, and savory harmony from crust to center.

Lasagna noodles: Cooked and chilled noodles form the base, making it easy to shape and fry.
Marinara sauce: Classic tomato sauce adds acidity and moisture for perfect layering.
Ricotta cheese: Brings creamy richness that contrasts with the crispy exterior.
Mozzarella cheese: Provides gooey meltiness and a beautifully stretchy bite.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the cheesy filling and topping.
Egg: Acts as a binder for the filling and helps the coating stick.
Breadcrumbs: The coating source for crispiness that air fries beautifully.
Italian seasoning: Infuses the dish with classic herbaceous Italian flavors.
Oil spray: A light mist ensures even browning in the air fryer without excess oil.
Salt and pepper: To season and enhance every layer.

Variations for Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta (Olive Garden Copycat)

This recipe is versatile and easy to tweak for different tastes or dietary needs. Whether you want to add extra flavors or switch up the cheeses, it’s simple to make it your own.

Vegetarian swap: Skip meat and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the filling.
Spicy kick: Mix red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb coating or marinara sauce.
Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and breadcrumbs.
Cheese overload: Experiment with provolone, fontina, or asiago in the filling.
Meat lover’s edition: Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage into the ricotta filling.

Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta Olive Garden Copycat Recipe

How to Make Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta (Olive Garden Copycat)

Step 1: Prepare the Lasagna Noodles

Boil the lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente, rinse with cold water, and lay them flat on a sheet pan to cool completely. This prevents sticking and helps them hold their shape later.

Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, grated Parmesan, one beaten egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and evenly mixed. This filling gives you that creamy, luscious center.

Step 3: Assemble and Fold

Place a spoonful of the cheese filling and a little marinara sauce onto one half of a lasagna noodle, fold the noodle over forming a rectangular packet, then press edges lightly to seal.

Step 4: Bread the Lasagna Packets

Dip each folded noodle packet into beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with seasoned breadcrumbs. This crust will turn crunchy and golden in the air fryer.

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Spray the air fryer basket with oil spray, place the fritta packets in a single layer, and cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and warm inside.

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta (Olive Garden Copycat)

Use cold noodles: Chilled noodles are easier to fold and less likely to tear during assembly.
Don’t overcrowd the basket: Give each piece room for even air circulation and crisping.
Light oil spray: A thin spray of oil aids browning without excess fat.
Seal edges well: To prevent filling from oozing out during cooking.
Turn halfway: Flip the fritta midway to ensure both sides get perfectly golden.

How to Serve Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta (Olive Garden Copycat)

Garnishes

Top each crispy lasagna fritta with fresh chopped basil, a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan, and a drizzle of warm marinara sauce for a beautiful presentation and flavor boost.

Side Dishes

Pair your Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta with a crisp Caesar salad, warm garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complete a fulfilling meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Line a platter with fresh arugula or baby spinach, arrange the fritta packets on top with bowls of marinara for dipping, and add lemon wedges as a zesty accent.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover fritta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. They retain crispness better when reheated properly.

Freezing

Freeze unfried fritta packets on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to two months. Air fry from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to cook time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to bring back the crispy texture and warm the filling evenly.

FAQs

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe?

No-boil noodles are not recommended because they won’t soften completely during frying, which affects texture and folding.

Is it necessary to use an air fryer?

The air fryer crisps up the fritta perfectly with less oil than frying; however, you can pan-fry for similar results but expect more oil absorption.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

You can substitute with a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary for a similar flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and egg substitutes, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Make sure to seal the edges by pressing firmly and dipping the folded noodles carefully into the egg and breadcrumbs to create a sturdy barrier.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like discovering a homemade version of your beloved restaurant favorites, and this Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta (Olive Garden Copycat) delivers all the crispy, cheesy comfort we crave with a breeze of ease and less mess. Whether for a cozy night in or impressing friends at your next gathering, give this recipe a try and watch those golden bites disappear in record time.