Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini (A Classic Italian Comfort Dish!)
Eggplant Rollatini is a beloved Italian-American comfort food where tender eggplant slices are rolled around a creamy ricotta filling and baked in a rich marinara sauce. Itβs an elegant yet easy dish thatβs perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
π§ Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch slices
- Salt, for sweating the eggplant
- Olive oil, for brushing
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
π©βπ³ Instructions
Prepare the Eggplant:
Lightly salt the eggplant slices and place them on paper towels for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture and bitterness. Pat dry. Brush each slice with olive oil and roast in a 400Β°F oven for about 10β15 minutes until soft and pliable.
Make the Filling:
In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, Parmesan, 1 cup of the mozzarella, and fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Rollatini:
Spread a little marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place a heaping spoonful of filling on one end of each eggplant slice, roll it up, and place seam-side down in the dish.
Top and Bake:
Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the rolled eggplant, sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella, and cover with foil. Bake at 375Β°F for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10β15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve:
Let rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh herbs and serving.
π¦ Amazon Must-Haves to help you create the best Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini
- π Mandoline Slicer for Uniform Eggplant Slices β Get perfectly even slices every time
- π§ Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese β Rich, creamy ricotta perfect for filling
- π Classic Marinara Sauce β A delicious shortcut for flavorful baking
- π₯ Deep Ceramic Baking Dish β Perfect for even heating and beautiful presentation
- π§ Italian Herb Seasoning Blend β Adds extra flavor to your cheese mixture
π‘ Helpful Tip: Want a lower-carb option? Swap out the eggplant for zucchini and follow the same process for a delicious twist on this classic dish!