Eggplant Rollatini is a delightful and savory Italian dish that features thin slices of eggplant rolled up with a cheesy, herbed filling. This delicious meal combines crispy, roasted eggplant with creamy ricotta and mozzarella, all smothered in a rich marinara sauce. Whether you are following a vegetarian diet or simply craving a flavorful Italian meal, this Eggplant Rollatini recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Eggplant Rollatini can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. It’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to special gatherings. The combination of textures from the crispy, golden eggplant to the creamy, cheesy filling makes this dish truly irresistible.

Recipe Preparation Equipment

To prepare Eggplant Rollatini, you will need the following equipment:

Sharp knife: For slicing the eggplant into thin, even pieces.
Cutting board: A stable surface for slicing the eggplant.
Large baking sheet: For roasting the eggplant slices.
Large mixing bowl: To combine the ricotta, mozzarella, and herbs.
Spoon or spatula: For spreading the filling on the eggplant slices.
9×13-inch baking dish: To assemble and bake the rollatini.
Aluminum foil: To cover the baking dish while it bakes.
Tongs: To handle the eggplant slices while roasting or assembling.

What do you need to prepare Eggplant Rollatini?

To make this delicious Eggplant Rollatini recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

Eggplant: 2 medium-sized eggplants (preferably firm and fresh).
Ricotta cheese: 1 ½ cups (use full-fat for a richer filling).
Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup shredded (preferably fresh mozzarella).
Parmesan cheese: ½ cup grated.
Egg: 1 large egg (to bind the filling).
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (for added flavor).
Fresh basil: ¼ cup chopped (for a burst of freshness).
Fresh parsley: ¼ cup chopped (optional, for extra flavor).
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (for roasting the eggplant slices).
Salt: To taste.
Black pepper: To taste.
Marinara sauce: 2 cups (homemade or store-bought).
Breadcrumbs: ¼ cup (optional, for added texture).
Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon (for Italian flavor).
Red pepper flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a little heat).

How to make Easy Eggplant Rollatini Step-by-Step ?

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Eggplant Rollatini:

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the eggplants lengthwise into ¼-inch thick slices. Make sure the slices are even to ensure they cook uniformly.
Place the eggplant slices on a large baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Roast the eggplant slices in the oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, parsley (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper.
Mix everything together until smooth and well combined. If you prefer a slightly firmer filling, you can add breadcrumbs to the mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Rollatini

Once the eggplant slices are roasted and cool enough to handle, lay each slice flat on a clean surface.
Spoon a generous amount of the cheese mixture onto the wider end of each eggplant slice.
Roll the eggplant slice tightly around the filling and place it seam side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Repeat this process for all the eggplant slices.

Step 4: Add the Marinara Sauce

Once all the rolls are arranged in the baking dish, pour marinara sauce evenly over the top of the rollatini.
Sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce for a cheesy, bubbly topping.

Step 5: Bake the Rollatini

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Allow the Eggplant Rollatini to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

There are several ways you can customize this Eggplant Rollatini recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

Gluten-Free: To make the dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, or omit them entirely.
Vegan Option: For a vegan version, replace the ricotta and mozzarella with dairy-free alternatives, such as cashew cheese or store-bought vegan cheeses. Use a flax egg or chia egg instead of the regular egg.
Meat-Filled Rollatini: For a heartier dish, add cooked ground beef or sausage to the cheese filling. This variation adds a savory depth of flavor.
Baked with Pesto: Instead of marinara sauce, try drizzling the rollatini with basil pesto for a fresh twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Notes

Choosing the Right Eggplant: When selecting eggplants, look for ones that are firm, glossy, and free of blemishes. Avoid overly large eggplants, as they can have a spongy texture and more seeds.
Roasting the Eggplant: Roasting the eggplant slices before assembling helps remove excess moisture, making the rollatini less watery. If you’re in a hurry, you can also grill the eggplant slices for a smoky flavor.
Assembly Tips: If you find that the eggplant slices are too large, feel free to trim them into smaller pieces to make the rolls easier to handle. Also, make sure the rolls are tightly packed to prevent them from unraveling during baking.

Serving Suggestions

Eggplant Rollatini can be served as a main course, side dish, or appetizer. Here are a few ideas for serving:

Main Course: Serve the rollatini alongside a simple side salad with balsamic vinaigrette for a complete meal.
Side Dish: Pair the Eggplant Rollatini with a crusty loaf of garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables.
Appetizer: Cut the rollatini into smaller pieces and serve them as bite-sized appetizers at your next gathering or party.

Helpful Tips

Make Ahead: You can prepare the Eggplant Rollatini in advance by assembling the dish and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great option if you want to save time on the day you plan to serve it.
Freezing: If you have leftovers, you can freeze the assembled rollatini before baking. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual.
Perfect Cheese Filling: For a creamier filling, you can add a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese to the ricotta mixture. This adds a smooth, velvety texture that will melt in your mouth.

Tips for the Best Eggplant Rollatini

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor—opt for fresh mozzarella and homemade marinara sauce if possible.
Don’t skip the roasting step! Roasting the eggplant slices helps intensify their flavor and ensures the rollatini is not watery.
Let the rollatini rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together and make it easier to serve.

Prep Time/ Cooking Time/ Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Nutritional Information (Per serving):

Calories: 290 kcal
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 540mg
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 6g

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FAQs

Can I make Eggplant Rollatini ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the rollatini in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze Eggplant Rollatini?
Absolutely! Freeze the assembled dish (before baking) for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator and bake as usual.

What can I serve with Eggplant Rollatini?
Eggplant Rollatini pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Eggplant Rollatini is a fantastic dish that combines the comforting flavors of eggplant, cheese, and marinara sauce in a way that’s both delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will surely impress your guests. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy and flavorful Italian-inspired meal.

Give it a try, and enjoy every bite!