Air Fryer Lasagna: Can You Try This?

Stouffer's frozen lasagna can be cooked in an air fryer in under 30 minutes. It's a convenient way to enjoy a hearty dish without the lengthy oven bake time. While you can cook Stouffer's lasagna in the oven or microwave, using an air fryer yields a crispy, golden brown result.

Stouffer's lasagna cooking instructions

Stouffer's Lasagna can be cooked in an air fryer, but it is important to note that the official Stouffer's website does not include air fryer instructions for their lasagna. The official cooking instructions for Stouffer's Lasagna are as follows:

Conventional Oven Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F.
• Leave the film on the tray and do not vent.
• Place the tray on a baking sheet on the center rack.
• Cook for 65-80 minutes.
• Uncover and cook for an additional 5 minutes (total cook time: 70-85 minutes).
• Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it stand for 5-10 minutes.

Micro-Bake Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F.
• Cut the film to vent.
• Cook in the microwave on high for 9-11 minutes.
• Place the tray on a baking sheet on the center rack of the preheated oven.
• Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it stand for 5-10 minutes.

Air Fryer Instructions:

If you would like to cook Stouffer's Lasagna in an air fryer, here are some general instructions that can be followed:

• Remove the lasagna from the plastic or paper dish.
• Let the lasagna thaw for a few minutes so that it can be easily removed from its dish.
• Transfer the lasagna to an air fryer-safe baking dish.
• Air fry the lasagna at 350-400°F for 15-20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and continue air frying for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the center of the lasagna is hot.
• Use a food thermometer to ensure the lasagna reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F.
• Carefully remove the lasagna from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Please note that cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the lasagna, as well as the model and wattage of your air fryer. Always refer to the official instructions provided by Stouffer's for the best results.

Air fryer benefits

Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Here are some of the benefits of using an air fryer:

Health Benefits

Air fryers use hot air to cook food, making them a healthier alternative to deep frying. They require little to no oil, resulting in a significant reduction in fat and calorie consumption. This can lead to a lower risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

Time Efficiency

Air fryers are known for their speed and convenience. They heat up much faster than traditional ovens, and their compact size makes them ideal for small kitchens or apartments. Cooking times are significantly reduced, and you don't have to worry about preheating or dirtying extra dishes.

Versatility

Air fryers are incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide variety of cooking methods, including baking, grilling, and roasting. They are perfect for cooking frozen foods, reheating leftovers, and preparing quick and easy weeknight dinners.

Ease of Use and Cleanup

Air fryers are easy to operate and require minimal cleanup. Most models have removable parts that can be cleaned in a dishwasher or by hand. They also come in different sizes, so you can choose one that fits your counter space and cooking needs.

Crispy Results

Air fryers are known for producing crispy, golden-brown results, especially when it comes to frozen foods like lasagna. They circulate hot air around the food, creating a crispy exterior without drying out the interior.

Overall, air fryers offer a convenient, healthy, and versatile cooking option for those looking to make delicious meals with minimal fuss.

Air fryer lasagna toppings

Air-fried lasagna is a quick and easy way to make a classic meal with a modern twist. It's a great option for a weeknight dinner, and you can top it with a variety of ingredients to elevate the flavor and make it your own. Here are some ideas for toppings to take your air fryer lasagna to the next level:

Extra Cheese

For an extra cheesy flavor, add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top for the last 2-3 minutes of air frying. You can also experiment with different types of cheese like provolone, fontina, or gouda, in addition to the traditional ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

Herbs and Spices

For extra flavor, season your lasagna with herbs and spices such as basil, oregano, or Italian seasonings. Fresh basil, in particular, can add a nice touch of flavor and garnish. You can also try adding thyme, red pepper flakes, or even a little nutmeg for extra depth.

Sauce

If you like your lasagna saucy, add extra marinara or meat sauce on top or in between the layers of pasta. You could also try adding a creamy white sauce or pesto for a unique twist.

Vegetables

For a healthier option, consider adding some vegetables to your lasagna. Sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, and bell peppers can add both flavor and nutritional value. You could also add vegetable ribbons such as zucchini or squash for a unique texture.

Meat

If you're a meat lover, you can add ground Italian sausage, ground chicken, or ground turkey to your lasagna. Just make sure to cook the meat thoroughly before assembling your lasagna.

Seafood

For a fancy touch, create a seafood-inspired lasagna by adding layers of cooked shrimp, crab, or a combination of your favorite seafood.

Bread

Serve your air fryer lasagna with a side of garlic bread or garlic knots for a complete meal. You can also make homemade air fryer garlic knots, which go perfectly with the lasagna.

Salad

To round out your meal, pair your lasagna with a side salad or some roasted asparagus. A simple garden salad or side of sautéed vegetables can add a fresh and healthy element to your dish.

Remember, the beauty of air fryer lasagna is that it's quick, convenient, and highly customizable. So, feel free to experiment with different toppings and ingredients to find your perfect combination. Enjoy your delicious and hassle-free meal!

Air fryer lasagna cooking times

The cooking time for lasagna in an air fryer varies depending on the size and thickness of the lasagna, the type of air fryer, and the desired level of browning. Here is a step-by-step guide to cooking Stouffer's lasagna in an air fryer, followed by some general tips and recommendations for cooking times.

Stouffer's Lasagna in an Air Fryer:

Step 1: Remove the frozen lasagna from its box and clear plastic covering.

Step 2: Place the lasagna in the air fryer basket, either in its original tray or transfer it to an oven-safe dish that fits inside your air fryer.

Step 3: Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and air fry at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Remove the foil and continue air frying for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the center of the lasagna is hot. Use a food thermometer to ensure the lasagna reaches an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Carefully remove the lasagna from the air fryer using oven mitts or tongs and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

General Tips and Recommendations:

• For a single-serve frozen lasagna, cook for approximately 12 minutes at 170 degrees Celsius, then finish at a higher temperature (200 degrees Celsius) for 2-4 minutes to get a crispy crust.
• For a thicker, family-sized lasagna, you may need to cook for up to an hour at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, covered with foil for the first 50 minutes and uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
• Always remove the lasagna from its packaging before placing it in the air fryer, as the plastic may melt and ruin your appliance.
• If your lasagna is pre-cooked, you only need to heat it through. If it's raw, follow the recommended cooking time on the recipe card.
• To prevent sticking, lightly spray the air fryer pan with cooking spray before adding the lasagna.
• There is no need to thaw frozen lasagna before air frying, but you can let it thaw for a few minutes to make it easier to remove from its dish.
• The recommended air fryer cook time for a standard-sized frozen lasagna is around 36 minutes, which is significantly less than the 60 minutes recommended for oven baking.
• To defrost frozen lasagna, start with a low temperature of 100 degrees Celsius/215 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes, then increase the temperature to finish cooking.
• To reheat leftover lasagna in the air fryer, place it on a layer of foil and air fry for 5 minutes at 160 degrees Celsius/320 degrees Fahrenheit, adding a couple of extra minutes if needed.
• Always check the internal temperature of the lasagna before serving. It should be at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Reheating lasagna in an air fryer

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

First, preheat your air fryer to 350°F to 375°F. Preheating is essential for even cooking, so don't skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Lasagna

Place the leftover lasagna in an oven-safe dish, such as a loaf pan or an air fryer-safe baking dish. If you're reheating a single slice, you can use a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from sticking to the air fryer basket and to retain moisture. If you're reheating a single piece of lasagna, you can use the toothpick trick: place a toothpick in the center of the lasagna, allowing the foil to rest on it, so the cheese doesn't stick.

Step 3: Reheat the Lasagna

Place the covered lasagna in the preheated air fryer and cook for 10 to 15 minutes. The cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of your lasagna, so adjust accordingly. Check the lasagna after 10 minutes to see if it needs more time.

Step 4: Check the Temperature

To ensure your lasagna is reheated thoroughly, it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a food thermometer to check the temperature at the center of the lasagna. If you don't have a thermometer, look for signs of doneness: the sauce should be bubbly, and the cheese should be melted and glossy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once your lasagna has reached the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the air fryer using oven mitts or tongs. Let the lasagna cool down for a few minutes before serving. Now you can enjoy your delicious, crispy, and cheesy lasagna!

Tips for Reheating Lasagna in an Air Fryer:

• If your lasagna has been refrigerated, let it sit on the counter while the air fryer preheats to take the chill off.
• For frozen lasagna, it is best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. However, if you're short on time, you can reheat it directly from frozen, but increase the cooking time by 10 to 15 minutes.
• To prevent the lasagna from drying out, add a splash of water or extra sauce before reheating.
• If you're reheating a single serving in the microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and prevent splattering. Then, heat in 90-second increments until warmed through.

By following these steps and tips, you'll be able to enjoy your leftover lasagna with the perfect balance of melted cheese and bubbly sauce, all achieved in the convenience of your air fryer!

Frequently asked questions