Savory Baked Eggplant with Ricotta Cheese
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Looking for a dish that combines comforting flavors and a bit of elegance? This baked eggplant with ricotta cheese is your answer. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a delightful side for your next gathering. The creamy ricotta pairs beautifully with the tender, roasted eggplant, making for a dish that’s satisfying and packed with flavor.
Imagine slicing into golden-brown eggplant, revealing a luscious filling of ricotta, herbs, and a hint of garlic. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures, from the soft eggplant to the creamy cheese. This recipe is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes, bringing vibrant colors to your table.
Delicious Layers of Flavor
This baked eggplant dish offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The tender eggplant is first roasted to a golden brown, creating a satisfying base for the creamy ricotta filling. Each slice reveals layers of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, bringing a beautiful presentation to your table.
As the cheese bubbles and browns, it adds a rich and savory quality to the dish. The contrast of the warm eggplant with the cool, fresh basil on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also elevates the overall taste experience, making every bite a pleasure.
The Heart of the Dish: Ricotta and Marinara
At the core of this recipe lies the creamy ricotta cheese and the tangy marinara sauce. The ricotta is mixed with a touch of garlic and fresh herbs, creating a luscious filling that complements the eggplant beautifully. This blend of flavors is key to achieving a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
The marinara sauce acts as a vibrant layer, infusing the dish with its rich tomato flavor. Each spoonful provides a balance of savory notes, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends.
Preparation Steps for Success
Preparing this baked eggplant is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Start by slicing the eggplant and allowing it to sit with a sprinkle of salt. This process removes excess moisture, ensuring the eggplant is perfectly tender during baking. After rinsing, patting dry is essential to keep the dish from becoming overly watery.
Next, the ricotta filling comes together quickly. Mixing the ricotta with a beaten egg, garlic, and basil creates a filling that is creamy and flavorful. Layering the ingredients in a baking dish is a fun part of the process, allowing you to create a visually appealing meal that’s sure to impress.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This baked eggplant dish pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread. The bread can be used to soak up any remaining marinara sauce, enhancing the meal’s overall enjoyment. A light salad with fresh greens would also complement the dish, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese and eggplant.
For a well-rounded meal, consider serving a light Italian wine. A crisp white wine can enhance the dish’s flavors and make for a delightful dining experience.
Garnishing for a Beautiful Finish
To elevate the presentation of this dish, a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves is the perfect finishing touch. The vibrant green adds a pop of color against the golden brown eggplant and the melted cheese. This simple addition not only enhances the visual appeal but also brings a fresh aroma to the dish.
Allow the baked eggplant to rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the layers set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve without compromising the structure of the dish.
Nutritious and Satisfying
This baked eggplant dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. With a combination of healthy fats from the cheeses and fiber from the eggplant, it makes for a balanced meal option. Each serving provides a hearty dose of protein and flavor that will leave you feeling satisfied.
Enjoying this dish is a true pleasure, combining comfort food with a hint of elegance. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate vegetables into your meals while indulging in savory, cheesy goodness.
Delicious and Rustic Baked Eggplant with Ricotta

This baked eggplant with ricotta is a delightful vegetarian option that combines roasted eggplant slices with a creamy ricotta filling, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. The taste is a wonderful balance of savory and slightly tangy, with a hint of earthiness from the eggplant.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Eggplant: Lay the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
- Make the Ricotta Filling: In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Dish: Layer half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place a layer of eggplant slices, then spoon the ricotta mixture on top. Repeat with remaining eggplant and ricotta, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan on top.
- Bake: Drizzle a little olive oil over the top and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 18g