If you’ve been craving a fun and indulgent twist on a classic, then the Deep Fried Lasagna Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine the comforting layers of pasta, rich sauce, and melted cheese, all enrobed in a perfectly crunchy golden crust thanks to deep frying. This recipe takes familiar flavors to exciting heights, delivering a crisp exterior that gives way to warm, oozy goodness inside. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion when you want to impress without fuss and savor every delightful bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, yet they work beautifully together to create the unique textures and vibrant flavors that make this Deep Fried Lasagna Recipe so special. Each component plays its role whether it’s lending moisture, crispness, or that irresistible cheesy savor.
- Frozen lasagna: The star of the show, offering those classic layers to transform.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): Helps the coating stick and contributes to a light, crispy crust.
- Sea salt (1 teaspoon): Elevates the flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick to balance richness.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Works with eggs to create a smooth dipping mixture.
- Large eggs (3): Bind the coating to the lasagna pieces perfectly.
- Italian herb breadcrumbs (2 cups): Infuse every bite with aromatic herbs and add crunch.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (1 cup): Mixed into the crumbs for extra savory punch and meltiness.
- Vegetable oil or vegetable shortening (6-8 cups): For frying to that perfect golden crisp.
- Fresh parsley (finely chopped): A bright, fresh garnish that lightens each bite.
How to Make Deep Fried Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Thaw the Lasagna Slightly
Begin by removing the frozen lasagna from its packaging and letting it thaw for 30 minutes to an hour. It doesn’t have to thaw completely, but a little softening makes it much easier to cut and handle without falling apart during frying.
Step 2: Cut Into Portions
Once the lasagna is slightly thawed, slice it into 6 large portions, or smaller if you prefer bite-sized pieces. Smaller portions not only fry faster but also make for fantastic appetizers or party snacks. For a dinner-sized serving, six pieces work beautifully.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Set up your frying station by heating 6 to 8 cups of vegetable oil or shortening in a deep, heavy pot or Dutch oven. Use a candy thermometer clipped inside the pot to maintain a steady temperature of 350°F. This steady heat ensures an even, golden fry that won’t be greasy or soggy.
Step 4: Prepare the Dredging Station
While the oil heats, create three shallow bowls for dipping: one with a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper; the second with the whisked eggs combined with milk; and the third with the Italian herb breadcrumbs mixed with freshly grated parmesan cheese. These stations allow for easy and efficient coating.
Step 5: Coat the Lasagna Pieces
Take each lasagna portion and first coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring every side is covered. Then dip it into the egg and milk mixture so that all the flour is moistened and the batter sticks well. Finally, roll the piece in the breadcrumb and parmesan mix, pressing lightly so it adheres completely.
Step 6: Fry Until Crispy and Golden
Carefully place one or two pieces of the coated lasagna into the hot oil. Fry each side until the crust turns a deep golden brown, which should take a few minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels or brown paper bags to absorb any excess oil.
Step 7: Finish Cooking if Needed
If your pieces are large, they may not heat through all the way during frying. To ensure the lasagna is piping hot throughout, transfer them to a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. This keeps the crust crisp while warming the center perfectly. Smaller pieces usually finish cooking entirely in the oil.
Step 8: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Serve your deep fried lasagna immediately with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan and chopped parsley for a burst of freshness. Marinara dipping sauce on the side is an excellent companion, elevating the flavors further.
How to Serve Deep Fried Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of vibrant green and a mild herbaceous note that cuts through the richness beautifully. Don’t forget extra parmesan for a final savory flourish right before serving. These simple garnishes transform the plate into something special.
Side Dishes
This indulgent Deep Fried Lasagna Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or steamed garlic green beans. These lighter dishes balance out the richness while keeping your meal well-rounded and colorful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, slice the fried lasagna into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter with small bowls of dipping sauces, such as spicy marinara, creamy basil aioli, or tangy roasted red pepper. For a plated dinner, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top and sprinkle chopped fresh basil alongside parsley for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover deep fried lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Keeping the pieces crisped and fresh is easier if you place a paper towel in the container to absorb extra moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze unfried, breaded lasagna portions by placing them on a parchment-lined tray until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, fry them directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time slightly to ensure they heat through.
Reheating
To bring back the crispy texture and melted goodness, reheat leftover pieces in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes. This method keeps the breading crunchy and ensures the inside is perfectly warmed without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use homemade lasagna for this Deep Fried Lasagna Recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade lasagna works wonderfully. Just make sure to chill it so it’s firm enough to cut and coat easily without falling apart.
What’s the best oil for deep frying this dish?
Vegetable oil or vegetable shortening are ideal as they have high smoke points and neutral flavors, perfect for achieving a crispy, golden crust without overpowering the lasagna’s taste.
How do I prevent the coating from falling off while frying?
Ensuring each piece is evenly coated through the three dipping steps—flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs—helps the crust adhere well. Also, fry at the proper temperature to prevent sogginess which can make the coating loosen.
Can I make the Deep Fried Lasagna Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, and double-check any packaged ingredients to make sure they are gluten-free friendly.
Is the lasagna fully cooked after frying?
Larger pieces may need finishing in the oven after frying to ensure the center is hot and melted. Smaller pieces typically cook through in the oil alone, but always check the temperature or cut to verify.
Final Thoughts
This Deep Fried Lasagna Recipe is a sensational way to enjoy the comfort of classic lasagna with an irresistible crispy twist. It’s perfect for family dinners, parties, or any time you want to elevate your comfort food game with something memorable. Go ahead and give it a try — your taste buds will thank you for this crispy, cheesy adventure!
Print
Deep Fried Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Deep Fried Lasagna recipe offers a crispy and flavorful twist on classic Italian comfort food. Frozen lasagna is cut into portions, coated in a seasoned flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixture with parmesan cheese, then deep-fried to golden perfection. Perfect as a hearty appetizer or main course, these crunchy lasagna bites are served hot with extra parmesan and marinara sauce, combining the creamy layers inside with a satisfyingly crisp crust.
Ingredients
Lasagna
- 1 frozen lasagna
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups Italian herb breadcrumbs
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
Frying
- 6–8 cups vegetable oil or vegetable shortening (for frying)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara sauce (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Thaw Lasagna: Remove the frozen lasagna from its packaging and allow it to thaw for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. It doesn’t need to thaw completely, just enough to be cut into pieces.
- Cut Lasagna: Using a sharp knife, cut the thawed lasagna into 6 large equal pieces or smaller portions depending on serving preferences. Smaller pieces cook faster and are great for appetizers.
- Heat Oil: Pour 6-8 cups of vegetable oil or shortening into a heavy stock pot or Dutch oven. Heat the oil to 350°F over about 15 minutes. Use a candy thermometer clipped to the pot to monitor and maintain temperature.
- Prepare Dredging Station: In three separate shallow bowls, place the following: one with flour, sea salt, and black pepper combined; one with whisked milk and eggs; and one with Italian herb breadcrumbs mixed with grated parmesan cheese.
- Coat Lasagna Pieces: Dip each lasagna piece first into the flour mixture, coating all sides; then into the milk and egg mixture; and finally into the breadcrumb and parmesan mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Set Coated Pieces: Place the coated lasagna pieces onto a sheet pan while waiting to fry.
- Fry Lasagna: Carefully add one or two pieces to the hot oil and fry until golden brown on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove and place on paper towels or brown paper bags to drain excess oil.
- Finish Cooking if Needed: For larger pieces that may not be fully heated through after frying, preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the fried lasagna on a sheet pan for 15 minutes to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F. Smaller bite-size pieces usually cook through during frying.
- Serve: Serve the deep fried lasagna hot, garnished with extra freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Marinara sauce is optional for dipping.
- Store and Reheat: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat by baking at 350°F on a sheet of aluminum foil for 15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Notes
- Lasagna should be partially thawed so it can be cut but does not need to be fully thawed before frying.
- Smaller bite-sized pieces cook through fully in frying oil; larger portions may require finishing in the oven.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for best frying results and crispiness.
- Using a candy thermometer is essential for even frying and preventing soggy coating.
- Reheating by baking keeps the breading crisp, unlike microwaving which makes it soggy.
