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).
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
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Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Slice the eggplants lengthwise into ¼-inch thick slices. Make sure the slices are even to ensure they cook uniformly.
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Place the eggplant slices on a large baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
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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
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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.
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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
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Once the eggplant slices are roasted and cool enough to handle, lay each slice flat on a clean surface.
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Spoon a generous amount of the cheese mixture onto the wider end of each eggplant slice.
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Roll the eggplant slice tightly around the filling and place it seam side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Repeat this process for all the eggplant slices.
Step 4: Add the Marinara Sauce
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Once all the rolls are arranged in the baking dish, pour marinara sauce evenly over the top of the rollatini.
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Sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce for a cheesy, bubbly topping.
Step 5: Bake the Rollatini
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Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
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After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
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Allow the Eggplant Rollatini to rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Americans
Nutrition
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 12g
Keywords: Eggplant Rollatini Recipe