Eggplant Rollatini is a delightful dish that dances on your palate, showcasing the rich flavors of roasted eggplant and a creamy filling. savory squash casserole Imagine the sweet aroma of baked cheese wafting through your kitchen, making it impossible to resist. creamy kielbasa skillet

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I make Eggplant Rollatini ahead of time?
- Can I freeze Eggplant Rollatini?
- What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary hug that brings back memories of family gatherings and laughter-filled dinners. Picture yourself sharing these delectable rolls with loved ones, all while basking in the warmth of good food and great company. Italian sausage pasta pairing.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Eggplant Rollatini is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
- Its flavor profile combines savory cheeses with fresh herbs for an unforgettable taste experience
- The vibrant presentation makes it a visual feast that’s sure to wow at any dinner table
- This dish is versatile enough for vegetarians and can be adapted for various dietary needs
One memorable evening, my friends devoured these rolls in record time, leaving me with only crumbs and a warm heart filled with joy.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Eggplant: Look for firm, glossy eggplants without blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
- Ricotta Cheese: Use whole-milk ricotta for creaminess; it enhances the rolls’ richness beautifully.
- Shredded Mozzarella: Opt for fresh mozzarella if possible; it melts perfectly and adds delightful stretch.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own for maximum flavor; pre-grated can lack that fresh taste.
- Fresh Basil: Choose vibrant green leaves; they bring brightness to the filling and sauce. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.
- Marinara Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought; just ensure it’s high-quality for the best flavor.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil enhances flavor during roasting.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth; avoid powdered versions for this recipe.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste as you prepare each layer.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the eggplant lengthwise into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Roast them on a baking sheet until tender, approximately 20 minutes.
- While the eggplant roasts, mix ricotta cheese with shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Taste-test your filling—you might want to eat it straight from the bowl!
- Once your eggplant is ready and cool enough to handle, place about two tablespoons of filling on one end of each strip. Carefully roll them up like tiny burritos (but without beans). Place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the assembled rollatini until they are generously coated. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top to create that gooey, melty layer we all crave.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil after 15 minutes to allow the cheese to brown beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when bubbly goodness erupts from underneath!
- After removing from the oven, let them rest briefly—if you can resist! Garnish with more fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving hot. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
With Eggplant Rollatini on your table, you’re sure to impress everyone with this comforting classic! fried chicken with gravy.
You Must Know
- Eggplant Rollatini is a delightful dish that impresses with its layers of flavor
- The combination of creamy ricotta and tangy marinara makes every bite heartwarming
- Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting the eggplant slices for perfect tenderness while preparing the cheesy filling and sauce simultaneously. This saves time and ensures all flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping ricotta for mascarpone for an extra creamy texture or adding sautéed spinach for a nutritious twist. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 350°F until warmed through, preserving that gooey, cheesy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your eggplant rolls stay intact, avoid overcooking the eggplant slices
- Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor and always taste your filling before assembly
- A sprinkle of cheese on top can elevate presentation and taste!
Cooking Eggplant Rollatini reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen filled with laughter and aromas wafting through the air. It always feels like home. For more inspiration, check out this Orange Custard Squares recipe.
FAQ
Can I make Eggplant Rollatini ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it beforehand and refrigerate it until baking.
Can I freeze Eggplant Rollatini?
Absolutely! It freezes well; just wrap tightly before freezing.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
Try using cottage cheese or vegan alternatives for a different twist.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Eggplant Rollatini
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Eggplant Rollatini is a mouthwatering Italian dish that features tender roasted eggplant slices filled with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh basil, all smothered in rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this comforting recipe is both satisfying and delicious. Gather your loved ones around the table and savor every cheesy bite of this delightful dish that brings warmth and joy.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch strips
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Roast on a baking sheet for about 20 minutes until tender.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper to create the filling.
- Once the eggplant is cool enough to handle, place about two tablespoons of filling at one end of each strip and roll them up tightly. Place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the rolls and sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; remove foil after 15 minutes to brown the cheese.
- Let rest briefly before garnishing with more basil or Parmesan before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (100g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg