Name: Eggplant Rollatini
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 large Eggplants (Sliced lengthwise); 1 cup Ricotta Cheese; 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated); 1 tsp Italian Seasoning; 2 cups Marinara Sauce

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Oh, let me tell you about Eggplant Rollatini! This dish is like a warm hug from my Italian grandmother, bursting with flavors that dance on your palate. Growing up, I remember the enticing smell of marinara sauce simmering on the stove as she prepped her famous rollatini. The eggplants, sliced just right, became the perfect canvas for a creamy cheese filling that just melts in your mouth. It’s not just a dish; it’s a tradition, a comforting reminder of family dinners where laughter filled the air. I love how the rich, cheesy goodness contrasts with the tender eggplant, all baked to perfection. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Eggplant Rollatini is sure to impress and make you feel right at home.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you need to whip up some delicious Eggplant Rollatini:

For the Eggplant:
- 2 large Eggplants, sliced lengthwise
For the Filling:
- 1 cup Ricotta Cheese
- 1 cup shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups Marinara Sauce

Make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go! The eggplants should be sliced nicely to hold all that cheesy goodness, and the cheeses should be at room temperature for easy mixing. Let’s get rolling!

How to Prepare Eggplant Rollatini

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your Eggplant Rollatini bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden and bubbly. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a soggy dish! So, let that oven warm up while you tackle the eggplants.

Prepare the Eggplants

Now, let’s get to those eggplants! Slice them lengthwise into about 1/4-inch thick slices. I find that a sharp knife really helps here – a smooth cut makes a world of difference! Once they’re sliced, you can grill or roast them. If you’re roasting, lay the slices on a baking sheet and drizzle a bit of olive oil, then season lightly with salt and pepper. Roast them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. You want them soft enough to roll without breaking, but not mushy. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Make the Cheese Filling

While the eggplants are roasting, let’s whip up that delicious cheese filling! In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. I like to use a spatula to mix everything together until it’s creamy and well incorporated. You want every bite to be packed with that cheesy goodness! Give it a little taste, and don’t hesitate to add a pinch of salt if you like. So simple, yet so satisfying!

Roll the Eggplants

Now, it’s the fun part – rolling! Take a slice of your roasted eggplant and place a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture at one end. Gently roll it up, tucking in the sides as you go to keep that filling tucked inside. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; a little rustic charm goes a long way! Repeat this process with all your slices. You’ll love how each roll turns out – it’s like a little package of joy!

Assemble the Dish

Time to put it all together! Start by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. This prevents sticking and adds extra flavor. Next, arrange your rolled eggplants seam-side down in the dish. Once they’re all snug in there, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. You can even sprinkle a little extra mozzarella on top for that melty finish we all adore. Wow, just looking at it makes me hungry!

Bake and Serve

Pop your dish in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden on top. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving – it’ll be hot! Pair your Eggplant Rollatini with a side salad or some garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal. Trust me, you’re going to want to savor every bite!

Tips for Success

Here are my top tips to ensure your Eggplant Rollatini turns out perfectly every time!

Choose the right eggplants: Go for firm, shiny ones without blemishes. They’ll give you the best texture and flavor.
Don’t skip salting: If you have time, sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This helps prevent sogginess!
Mix it up! Feel free to experiment with the cheese filling. Adding spinach or herbs can give it a fresh twist.
Make ahead: You can assemble the rollatini a day in advance and bake it just before serving. Perfect for busy nights!

With these tips, you’re all set to create a stunning dish that your family will love!

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions I get about making Eggplant Rollatini, along with my answers to help you on your cooking journey!

Can I make Eggplant Rollatini ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the rollatini a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese? If you don’t have ricotta on hand, try cottage cheese or even a blend of cream cheese and Greek yogurt for a creamy filling. Both options work beautifully!
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover Eggplant Rollatini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it in the oven to keep that delicious texture!
Can I freeze Eggplant Rollatini? Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
What should I serve with Eggplant Rollatini? A light side salad or some garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish. The freshness of a salad balances the richness of the rollatini!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for each serving of Eggplant Rollatini. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 800mg
Potassium: 600mg
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 6g
Calcium: 300mg
Iron: 2mg

This dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and nutrients, making it a satisfying choice for a hearty meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: You can whip up this Eggplant Rollatini in about 75 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Flavorful Comfort Food: The blend of creamy cheeses and rich marinara sauce creates a deliciously satisfying dish that everyone will adore.
Vegetarian Delight: It’s a fantastic option for vegetarians or anyone looking to incorporate more veggies into their meals.
Customizable: You can easily modify the filling or sauce to suit your taste, adding your favorite herbs or veggies!
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for an easy reheat option that still tastes fresh and delicious!

Call to Action

I’d love to hear about your Eggplant Rollatini adventures! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out for you. Don’t forget to rate the recipe too! Your feedback means the world to me and helps others discover this delicious dish!

For more delicious recipes, check out my Creamy Mushroom Wild Rice Soup or Vegetable Soup with Chicken Meatballs. You can also find inspiration on my Pinterest page!