Description
This Olive Garden-inspired fried lasagna recipe features lasagna noodles stuffed with a creamy cheese filling, breaded and fried until golden and crispy, then topped with Alfredo and marinara sauce for a deliciously indulgent twist on classic lasagna.
Ingredients
10 lasagna noodles
1 (15-ounce) tub whole milk ricotta cheese
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup Asiago cheese, shredded
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
1–2 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
2 large eggs
1 large egg
1/4 cup whole milk
2 cups panko bread crumbs
Vegetable oil (for frying)
1 jar Alfredo sauce
1 jar marinara sauce
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Pat dry with paper towels, then trim the ribboned edges of each noodle to make them easier to fold.
- Make the cheese filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, Asiago, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and fresh basil. Add the eggs and stir until smooth and well incorporated.
- Assemble the bundles: Lay each lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of the cheese mixture evenly over the entire surface of each noodle. Fold the noodles into 2-inch sections, creating small layered bundles.
- Freeze the bundles: Arrange the prepared lasagna bundles on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour or until firm.
- Prepare the breading: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. In a separate bowl, spread out the panko bread crumbs.
- Bread the bundles: Dip each frozen lasagna bundle into the egg mixture, ensuring all sides are coated. Then, press the bundle into the breadcrumb mixture, covering it completely. Repeat with all the bundles.
- Heat the oil: Add 2–3 inches of vegetable oil to a deep skillet or saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the bundles: Carefully place the breaded lasagna bundles into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Heat the sauces: Warm both the Alfredo and marinara sauces either in the microwave or on the stovetop. Heat them separately.
- Serve: Spread a layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of each serving plate. Arrange the fried lasagna bundles on top. Drizzle with marinara sauce for a vibrant, flavorful finish. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!
Notes
Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the ricotta mixture for a veggie-packed alternative.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture or drizzle some hot sauce on top of the marinara sauce for extra heat.
Meat-filled lasagna: Add a layer of cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken to the cheese filling for a heartier version of these fried lasagna bundles.
Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or provolone, for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bundle
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
