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Olive Garden Air Fryer Stuffed

Olive Garden Air Fryer Stuffed for Cheesy Comfort in Minutes

Enjoy Olive Garden-inspired Air Fryer Stuffed Ziti Fritta, a healthier twist on a classic dish, featuring gooey cheese and crispy pasta in under an hour.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 2 cups Rigatoni or Ziti Rigatoni preferred for easier filling.
  • 0.25 cups Ricotta Cheese Adds creaminess; no substitute recommended.
  • 0.25 cups Asiago Cheese, shredded Can substitute with Parmesan if preferred.
  • 0.25 cups Romano Cheese, shredded Substitute with additional Parmesan if needed.
  • 0.25 cups Parmesan Cheese, shredded Pecorino Romano is a good alternative.
  • 0.25 cups Mascarpone Cream cheese can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Adds depth and color; no replacement needed.
  • 2 tablespoons Half & Half Cream Can swap for milk or plant-based cream.
For the Breading
  • 2 large Eggs Binds the breading; no substitutes available.
  • 0.5 cups Breadcrumbs Consider Panko for extra crunch.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Vegetable oil is a suitable substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Grated Parmesan Can be replaced with another cheese.
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning An oregano, basil, and thyme mix can be used.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Food Processor
  • mixing bowl
  • Piping bag
  • colander
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8 to 10 minutes, then drain and cool completely.
  2. Blend the ricotta, Asiago, Romano, Parmesan, mascarpone, tomato paste, and half & half cream in a food processor until smooth and creamy.
  3. Transfer the cheese filling into a piping bag or zip-top bag, cut a small corner, and stuff each cooled rigatoni with the mixture.
  4. Optional: Freeze the stuffed rigatoni on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours to prevent the cheese from oozing out during cooking.
  5. In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. In another dish, combine the breadcrumbs and olive oil, then microwave for about 30 seconds.
  6. Dip each stuffed rigatoni in the egg wash, ensuring it's evenly coated, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture for good coverage.
  7. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (188°C). Coat the basket with nonstick spray, place the breaded stuffed rigatoni in a single layer, and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden-brown.
  8. Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 700IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer for a crispy texture.

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