Deliciously Cheesy Eggplant Rolls for Everyone

Craving a dish that’s both comforting and impressive? These Deliciously Cheesy Eggplant Rolls are the answer! Inspired by classic Italian flavors, this recipe combines tender eggplant with a rich, cheesy filling and tangy marinara sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these rolls are sure to be a hit! Let’s roll into this culinary adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Eggplant Rolls Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with this recipe! Here are just a few reasons why you’ll be making these eggplant rolls again and again:

• Effortless Elegance: Impress your guests (or yourself!) with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet, without the fuss.
• Cheesy Goodness: A blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates an irresistibly creamy and flavorful filling.
• Veggie-Packed: A delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the filling to your liking with different herbs, spices, or cheeses.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze for a quick and easy meal.
• Satisfying and Hearty: These eggplant rolls are a complete meal in themselves, perfect for a comforting dinner.

These rolls offer all the satisfaction of classic comfort food with less cleanup than lasagna. The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with warmth!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering cheesy eggplant rolls. Don’t worry, most of these ingredients are pantry staples!

For the Eggplant Rolls:

• Eggplants: 2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices. Choose firm, heavy eggplants for best results.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Extra virgin olive oil adds the best flavor.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon. Enhances the eggplant’s natural flavors.
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice.

For the Filling:

• Ricotta Cheese: 2 cups (about 450g). Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup (about 115g). Low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella works well.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup (about 50g). Freshly grated Parmesan has the best flavor.
• Large Egg: 1. Acts as a binder for the filling.
• Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup, chopped. Adds a fresh, aromatic flavor.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Adds a pungent, savory note.
• Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon. A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and complexity.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Adjust according to your preference.

the Sauce:

• Marinara Sauce: 2 cups (about 500ml). Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 1/2 cup (about 60g), for topping. Adds a bubbly, golden finish.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: For garnish. Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Selection Tips: For the basil, opt for vibrant green leaves without any dark spots. For an extra layer of flavor, you can lightly toast the nutmeg before adding it to the filling.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks – A delightful side to complement your Eggplant Rolls!

Essential Equipment List

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Make sure you have these tools on hand before you start cooking. Proper equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable:

• Cutting board: A sturdy surface for slicing the eggplant.
• Sharp knife: Essential for evenly slicing the eggplant into thin slices.
• Baking sheets: Two baking sheets are needed to roast the eggplant.
• Parchment paper: Prevents the eggplant from sticking to the baking sheets.
• Pastry brush: For brushing the eggplant slices with olive oil.
• Mixing bowls: To prepare the cheesy filling.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: For assembling and baking the eggplant rolls.
• Aluminum foil: To cover the dish during the initial baking period.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measuring of ingredients.

Optional: A mandoline slicer can help you achieve uniformly thin eggplant slices quickly.

Recipe Details

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Medium

Scale up or down as required!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create perfectly cheesy eggplant rolls every time. Don’t be intimidated – it’s easier than it looks!

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Slice the eggplants lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices. Aim for about 12-16 slices from two large eggplants.

Arrange eggplant slices on the prepared baking sheets. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and slightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

Pro Tip: If the eggplant is too bitter, sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for 30 minutes before rinsing and patting dry.

Step 2: Make the Cheesy Filling

While the eggplant is baking, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped basil, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Mix until all ingredients are well combined. Set aside.

Sensory Cue: The aroma of garlic and basil will fill your kitchen!

Step 3: Assemble the Eggplant Rolls

Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).

Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Place about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture at one end of each eggplant slice and roll up tightly.

Place each roll seam-side down in the baking dish.

Troubleshooting: If the eggplant slices are tearing, they might need to be baked a little longer.

Step 4: Bake the Eggplant Rolls

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the eggplant rolls and sprinkle with the additional 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Serve

Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

CHECK OUT: Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Muffins – For a cozy after-dinner treat!

Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your cheesy eggplant rolls are a resounding success:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Overcrowding can lead to steamed, rather than roasted, eggplant. Bake in batches if necessary.
• Use Quality Cheese: The better the cheese, the better the flavor of the filling.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before filling the eggplant, taste the cheese mixture and adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings as needed.
• Let the Eggplant Cool Slightly: This makes it easier to handle and prevents the filling from melting too quickly.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to put your own spin on these eggplant rolls? Here are a few ideas:

• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese filling for a kick.
• Vegetarian: To make this vegan, replace the ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives.
• Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley in the filling.
• Meat Lovers: Add cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage to the cheese filling for a heartier meal.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Cheesy Eggplant Rolls

These cheesy eggplant rolls are delicious on their own, but here are a few ideas for creating a complete meal:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the rolls.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra marinara sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions for a colorful and nutritious side.
• Non-alcoholic Drinks: Pair with sparkling water or home made ice tea.

Health Benefits

Eggplant is packed with nutrients! It’s a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The cheese provides protein and calcium. Fresh basil is rich in antioxidants. These cheesy eggplant rolls are a surprisingly nutritious and satisfying meal!

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to store and reheat your leftover eggplant rolls:

• Storage: Store the eggplant rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the eggplant rolls in an oven-safe dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but they may not be as crispy.
• Freezing: Freeze the eggplant rolls after baking by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the filling, such as provolone, fontina, or even a little goat cheese for tanginess.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the eggplant rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent them from drying out.

How do I prevent the eggplant from being too watery?

Salting the eggplant before baking helps draw out excess moisture. After slicing the eggplant, sprinkle it with salt and let it sit for 30 minutes, then rinse and pat it dry before proceeding with the recipe.

Can I grill the eggplant instead of baking it?

Yes, grilling the eggplant is a great way to add a smoky flavor. Just be sure to slice the eggplant thick enough so that it doesn’t fall apart on the grill.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply ensure that your marinara sauce is gluten-free. All other ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 roll
• Calories: Approximately 280
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 18g

Exact nutritional values depend on brands and portion sizes. A nutrition calculator can provide more accurate details.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more comforting and flavorful recipes? Check out these other gems:

• Easy Cucumber Caprese Salad – A light and refreshing appetizer or side dish.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casserole – A family-friendly casserole packed with flavor.
• Easy Cabbage Casserole – A hearty and comforting vegetarian dish.

Conclusion

These Deliciously Cheesy Eggplant Rolls are a fast, flavorful, and guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Whip it up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece!

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