These cheesy eggplant rolls are a tasty treat that everyone can enjoy! Filled with creamy cheese and herbs, they’re both comforting and fun to eat.
Who knew veggies could be so exciting? I love serving these rolls hot, and they disappear quickly—my family can never get enough of them!🍆❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggplants: Choose firm, glossy eggplants for the best texture. If eggplants aren’t available, zucchini can be a great substitute. Just slice them thinly and follow the same preparation steps.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds a soft texture. If you’re dairy-free, try using cashew cheese or tofu blended with nutritional yeast for a similar consistency and flavor.
Cheeses: I love a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for flavor. If you want to switch things up, try using feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist!
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara is simple, but homemade sauce can really elevate this dish. For a quicker version, you can use a can of crushed tomatoes with seasoning.
What’s the Best Way to Slice Eggplants Thinly?
Getting those perfect thin slices can make or break your rolls. Here’s how to do it successfully:
- Use a sharp knife to slice the eggplant lengthwise into ¼-inch thick pieces.
- If you have a mandoline slicer, it can help create uniform slices with ease!
- Thinly sliced eggplants will cook and roll better, so aim for consistency.
Don’t rush—take your time to control the thickness. This makes a big difference in how well your rolls hold together!
Cheesy Eggplant Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rolls:
- 2 large eggplants, thinly sliced lengthwise
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying meal for weeknights or special occasions.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready when your rolls are assembled.
2. Prepare the Eggplants:
Slice the eggplants lengthwise into ¼-inch thick slices. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Roast the Eggplant Slices:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the eggplant slices for about 10-12 minutes, until they are softened and pliable. Once they are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
4. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
5. Assemble the Rolls:
On each eggplant slice, spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture. Roll the eggplant slice up carefully, starting at one end, and place it seam-side down into a baking dish. Repeat until all the eggplant slices are filled and rolled.
6. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Spread ½ cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of your baking dish. Place the eggplant rolls side by side within the dish, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
7. Add Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the eggplant rolls for a cheesy finish.
8. Bake the Rolls:
Pop the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will be irresistible!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take the dish out of the oven. Garnish the rolls with extra fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious cheesy eggplant rolls!
FAQ about Cheesy Eggplant Rolls
Can I Use Frozen Eggplants for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before using. This will help prevent your rolls from becoming too watery.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the cheese filling or mix in some chopped, fresh jalapeños. Alternatively, for a milder flavor, you can skip the garlic or reduce its amount.
Can I Make These Rolls Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any flour. Just ensure that the marinara sauce you use is gluten-free, and you’re good to go!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover eggplant rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through!
