Ninja Dual Air Fryer Lasagne With Time Saving Hack
Can I Cook Lasagne In An Air Fryer?
Air fryer lasagne is a quick and easy way to enjoy this popular classic Italian dish.
This layered lasagne contains savoury minced meat, tomato sauce, and melted cheese.
The pasta sheets cook evenly (see my tip below) and are crispy on the edges, the cheese melts and becomes golden brown.
Why not cook two at once if you have a Ninja Dual and freeze one?
Air frying not only reduces cooking time but also makes a healthier alternative to the traditional oven-baked lasagne.
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Ingredients
Olive Oil Spray (optional)
Lasagne Sheets (amount will depend on container size)
454g (1lb) minced beef
Basil leaves
2 bay leaves
2 balls of mozzarella (this is a substitute for the Bechamel sauce, saving time)
3 crushed garlic cloves
1 finely chopped onion
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
800g passata
PRO TIPS
The pasta sheets can sometimes not cook properly and be hard. To avoid this, whether you buy precooked pasta sheets or not, soak them in boiling water with a few drops of olive oil added for 5 minutes before layering your lasagne.
For easy retrieval from the basket, place a sling of foil under the container before air frying.
How Long To Cook Lasagne In An Air Fryer?
Lasagne takes approximately 20-25 minutes.
Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent overcooking.
The goal is to achieve a golden-brown, crispy top while ensuring the layers inside are thoroughly heated.
How To Cook Lasagne In The Air Fryer?
- Preheat the air fryer to 180C / 360F for 5 minutes.
- In a suitable container, add the beef mince, onion, olive oil, salt and pepper. Mix well and air fry at 180C / 360F until the minced beef has browned. Stirring often.
- Add the passata, bay leaves and a handful of basil. Air fry for a further 5 minutes.
- Remove the sauce from the basket and place it in a bowl. Clean the container.
- Prepare your container by brushing it with olive oil.
- Add a layer of lasagne sheets enough to cover the bottom of the container.
- Cover the sheets with the sauce and break some mozzarella, place on the top with 1 tbsp of parmesan and a few basil leaves.
- Repeat the process until you run out of sheets or reach the top. End with a lasagne sheet.
- Add a layer of cheese to the top and cover with foil.
- Cook at 180 C / 360 F for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and cook for a further 5 minutes or until the top browns.
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Serve dressed with a few more basil leaves. Yum!
Storing Leftover Lasagne
Store: Cool for no longer than 2 hrs as bacteria may form after this time. Place leftover lasagne in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: For the best results, let it cool and wrap the lasagne in cling film then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
How To Cook Frozen Lasagne In The Air Fryer?
Preheat the air fryer to 190C / 380F for 5 minutes.
Cover the lasagne with foil and cook for 15-20 minutes.
Remove the foil and cook for a further 5 minutes.
Use a meat thermometer and check the internal temperature is 74C / 165F.
This instant-read thermometer features a foldable long probe that makes it easy to check the internal temperature of meats without getting too close to the heat. The backlight display ensures you can read temperatures clearly, even in low light. Perfect for grilling, roasting, or air frying, this digital meat thermometer is a must-have tool for any cook.
How To Reheat Lasagne In The Air Fryer
Again, preheat the air fryer to 180C / 360F for 5 minutes.
Cover with foil and cook for 10 minutes.
Remove the foil and cook for a few minutes more until piping hot.
Lasagne Tips
- Soak the lasagne sheets in boiling water and olive oil for 5 minutes to start the softening process before layering.
- To make it easier to remove the lasagne make a foil sling and place it under the container. You use the handy tongs, specially made for container retrieval.
- Cover the lasagne with foil to prevent excessive browning. Remove the foil during the last part of the cooking time to allow the top to crisp up.
- Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavours. Add your favourite herbs, spices, or vegetables to customise the lasagne.
Designed for versatility and safety, this anti-hot clamp gripper features a robust stainless steel construction that ensures durability while keeping your hands safe from heat.
More Air Fryer Recipes
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Air Fryer Steak Kebabs Easy And Healthy
10 Best Easy Air Fryer Snack Recipes
8 Lasagne Variations
Vegetarian
Replace the meat with roasted vegetables like courgettes, bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach or a minced beef alternative like Quorn.
Add a creamy ricotta and spinach layer for added richness.
Seafood
Experiment with a seafood lasagne using layers of prawns, crab, or even a seafood mix.
Enhance the flavours with a white sauce with added garlic and herbs.
Mexican
Add a Mexican flavour by layering the lasagne with seasoned ground beef or chicken, black beans, corn, and salsa.
Use an enchilada sauce and Mexican cheese blends for a bold flavour.
Mediterranean
Try some Mediterranean flavours by using lamb or grilled chicken as the protein.
Include layers of feta cheese, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, with a touch of tzatziki.
Pesto
Replace the traditional tomato sauce with layers of basil pesto for a herby twist.
Add sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for an extra flavour.
Buffalo Chicken
Shred cooked chicken and toss it in buffalo sauce (recipe) for a spicy kick.
Layer the lasagne with the buffalo chicken, blue cheese crumbles, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
Caprese
Opt for a Caprese-style lasagne with layers of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
Drizzle with a balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
Tex-Mex
Create a Tex-Mex lasagne by layering seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, and shredded cheddar.
Top with guacamole and sour cream for a delightful twist.
How To Air Fry Ready Made Shop Bought Lasagne
Cooking ready-made shop-bought lasagne is a convenient and quick way to enjoy a delicious meal.
Refrigerated Lasagne
Preheat your air fryer to 180C / 360F. This ensures that the lasagne cooks evenly.
Take the refrigerated, ready-made lasagne out of the packaging.
If the lasagne is in a disposable container other than foil, transfer it to an air fryer-safe dish.
Optional: For a crispy top, you can lightly brush the top of the lasagne with olive oil.
Put the lasagne into the basket. If the lasagne is larger than the basket, you may need to cut it into smaller portions for a better fit.
Cook the refrigerated lasagne for approximately 15-20 minutes.
The exact time may vary based on your air fryer model and the thickness of the lasagne.
Near the end of the cooking time, check the lasagne’s internal temperature using a meat thermometer. It should reach at least 74C / 165F) to be thoroughly heated.
If you want a crispier top, you can increase the temperature for the last few minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Once the cooking is complete, let the lasagne rest for a few minutes. This helps the layers settle, making it easier to slice and serve.
Slice the lasagne into portions, and serve.
Remember to adjust the cooking time based on your specific model and personal preferences. This method is a great way to enjoy a tasty lasagne without the extended oven time.
Frozen Lasagne
Cook the frozen lasagne at 180C / 360F for approximately 25-30 minutes.
As it’s frozen, it may take a bit longer than cooking refrigerated lasagne.
Adjust the time based on your model and the thickness of the lasagne.
Once cooked check the lasagne’s internal temperature using a meat thermometer.
It should reach at least 74C / 165F when thoroughly heated.
Q & A
Can you cook lasagne in a foil tray in an air fryer?
I use the catering foil trays as pictured above. Very handy and inexpensive.
This pack of 20 reusable trays is perfect for baking, roasting, freezing, and air frying, making them an essential addition to any kitchen. These trays are perfect for everyday meals or special occasions. Made from high-quality aluminium, these trays are designed to withstand high temperatures while being lightweight and easy to handle. Simply wash and reuse for your next culinary creation.
How do I prevent the lasagne from drying out in the air fryer?
Cover the lasagne with foil during part of the cooking time and uncover it towards the end for a crispy top.
Can I use different cheeses in lasagne?
Feel free to experiment with various cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, or a blend. Different cheeses add unique flavours and textures to the lasagne.
Can I use the air fryer to make lasagne with gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta in lasagne. Follow the same method, and ensure the pasta is well-sauced to prevent it from drying out.
How do I avoid the bottom of the lasagne from becoming soggy?
To prevent a soggy bottom, ensure the air fryer is preheated. You can also place the lasagne on a raised platform, like a trivet, to allow proper air circulation underneath.
Can I prepare the lasagne in advance and air fry it later?
You can assemble the lasagne in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to cook, place it in a preheated air fryer, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Air Fryer Fresh Lasagne In The Ninja Dual
Ingredients
- Olive Oil Spray (optional)
- Lasagne Sheets (amount will depend on container size)
- 454g (1lb) minced beef
- Basil leaves
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 balls of mozzarella (this is a substitute for the bechamel sauce saving time)
- 3 crushed garlic cloves
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 800g passata
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 180C / 360F for 5 minutes. Stir often.
- In a suitable container, add the beef mince, onion, olive oil, salt and pepper. Mix well and air fry at 180C / 360F until the minced beef has browned. Stir often.
- Add the passata, bay leaves and a handful of basil. Air fry for a further 5 minutes.
- Remove the sauce from the basket and place it in a bowl. Clean the container.
- Prepare your container by brushing it with olive oil.
- Add a layer of lasagne sheets enough to cover the bottom of the container.
- Cover the sheets with the sauce and break some mozzarella, place on the top with 1 tbsp of parmesan and a few basil leaves.
- Repeat the process until you run out of sheets or reach the top. End with a lasagne sheet.
- Add a layer of cheese to the top and cover with foil.
- Cook at 180 C / 360 F for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and cook for a further 5 minutes or until the top browns.
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Serve dressed with a few more basil leaves. Yum!
Notes
Pre-soak your lasagne sheets before assembling them for the best result.
Use foil at the start of air frying and remove near the end of the cooking time to brown the top.
Nutritional values may not be correct.
