There’s something magical about cheesy eggplant rollatini that dances on your taste buds and warms your heart. Imagine thinly sliced, perfectly roasted eggplant, lovingly rolled around a creamy ricotta and mozzarella filling, then swimming in a rich marinara sauce. French Onion Pot Roast It’s like a cozy hug from your Italian grandmother, minus the awkward family drama. For more inspiration, check out this creamy sun-dried tomato pasta recipe.
I remember the first time I made this dish; my kitchen turned into a battleground of flour and cheese. My friends walked in, their eyes wide with curiosity and hunger, as the smell of garlic wafted through the air. High Protein Mac and Cheese They didn’t leave until every last bite was devoured — a true testament to how delicious these cheesy eggplant rollatini can be! Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This dish is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a flavor explosion in every bite. The vibrant colors make it visually appealing for any occasion. Plus, it’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or fancy gatherings. Your family will beg for seconds! [/info_box]
I once made this cheesy eggplant rollatini for a potluck, and let me tell you, it was gone faster than you could say “Mangia!”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Eggplant: Look for firm, shiny eggplants without blemishes; they should feel heavy for their size.
Ricotta Cheese: Use whole milk ricotta for a creamier texture and richer flavor.
Shredded Mozzarella: Opt for fresh mozzarella if you want that gooey goodness that stretches beautifully.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought works fine, but homemade adds an extra layer of love and flavor.
Fresh Basil: Choose vibrant green leaves for garnish; they’ll brighten up both the dish and your mood!
Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh right before use to enhance its nutty aroma and taste.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds depth; feel free to customize based on your preference!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for roasting the eggplant and adding richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly and melts beautifully.
Prepare the Eggplant: Slice the eggplant lengthwise into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick. Sprinkle salt on both sides to draw out moisture and bitterness.
Roast the Eggplant: Lay out the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and roast until golden brown, about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Create the Filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture should be creamy yet slightly chunky.
Assemble Rollatini: Take one slice of roasted eggplant, place a spoonful of filling at one end, then roll it up tightly. Place seam-side down in a baking dish coated with marinara sauce.
Add Sauce and Cheese Topping: Pour remaining marinara sauce over the rollatini and sprinkle with leftover mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This is where it all comes together!
Bake to Perfection: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Serve warm garnished with fresh basil leaves; watch it disappear as quickly as it arrived! Enjoy every cheesy bite of this delightful comfort food that feels like home. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy mushroom lasagna recipe recipe.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini is not just a meal; it’s an experience! The combination of gooey cheese and tender eggplant creates a delightful texture. It’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. The aroma fills the kitchen, making it irresistible. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve cheesy perfection, roast the eggplant slices first, then prepare your filling while they cool down. This sequence ensures everything comes together seamlessly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ricotta with goat cheese or add spinach to the filling for extra flavor. Personalizing this dish makes it truly yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover rollatini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain that delicious cheesy texture.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano to elevate flavor and freshness. Make sure your eggplant is thinly sliced to avoid bitterness and ensure proper cooking. Don’t rush the cooling process; letting eggplant rest enhances its sweetness and makes rolling easier. [/info_box]
Sometimes I think my family loves cheesy Eggplant Rollatini more than me! Their delighted faces during dinner remind me why I keep making it—nothing beats family smiles over great food. Cheesy Ranch Potatoes.
FAQ
Can I make cheesy Eggplant Rollatini ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day before and bake it just before serving.
Is there a gluten-free option for the rollatini?
Absolutely! Just ensure you use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.
What can I serve with cheesy Eggplant Rollatini?
A light salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish, enhancing the meal experience.
Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini
Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini is a delightful Italian dish that combines tender roasted eggplant with a luscious ricotta and mozzarella filling, all enveloped in rich marinara sauce. This comforting recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, delivering an explosion of flavors in every bite. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, it’s guaranteed to impress your guests and leave them wanting more!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants (about 1.5 lbs), sliced lengthwise into 1/4 inch strips
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sprinkle salt on eggplant slices to draw out moisture; let sit for 15 minutes. Pat dry.
- Arrange eggplant on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for about 20 minutes until golden, flipping halfway.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta with half of the mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a spoonful of the filling on each eggplant slice, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a baking dish coated with marinara sauce.
- Pour remaining marinara over the rollatini and sprinkle with leftover mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil for the last 10 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 rollatini (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Feel free to substitute ricotta with goat cheese or add spinach for added nutrition. For gluten-free options, ensure you use gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired.
