If you are looking for an irresistible dish that combines creamy cheese fillings with tender, flavorful eggplant, you will absolutely fall in love with this Eggplant Rolls Stuffed with Cheese Recipe. It’s a comforting Italian-inspired creation that balances the earthiness of roasted eggplant with the lusciousness of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes that can easily become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Eggplant Rolls Stuffed with Cheese Recipe shines because of its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a vital role, from the smooth ricotta that brings creaminess to the perfectly roasted eggplant slices that add a tender bite and subtle smokiness.
- 2 medium eggplants: sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices for easy rolling and roasting.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: to brush the eggplant, helping it roast to tender perfection with a golden hue.
- Salt and pepper: to season the eggplant and enhance its natural flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese: provides a mild and creamy base for the cheese filling.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: adds beautiful meltiness and stretchiness inside the rolls.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: brings a nutty, sharp dimension to the filling.
- 1 egg: binds the cheese mixture, so the filling holds together perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil: infuses a fresh, aromatic flavor throughout.
- 1 garlic clove (minced): adds a subtle hint of warmth and depth.
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce: the saucy base and topping that brings vibrant tomato flavor and moisture.
- Extra Parmesan and fresh basil for garnish: the finishing touches that make every bite look and taste irresistible.
How to Make Eggplant Rolls Stuffed with Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Eggplant Slices
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush both sides of each eggplant slice with olive oil and sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The eggplant should come out tender and pliable, which is crucial for rolling without cracking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling
While the eggplant is roasting, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, chopped basil, and minced garlic in a mixing bowl. Stir everything until it’s smooth and well blended. This cheese mixture is creamy, flavorful, and the glue that holds your rolls together.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Spread half a cup of marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of a baking dish. Once your eggplant slices are cool enough to handle, place about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture onto one end of each slice. Roll them up carefully with the seam side facing down, then arrange the rolls snugly in the baking dish on top of the sauce.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Spoon the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the eggplant rolls. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes until the cheese filling is bubbly and the sauce is warmed through. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is simply unforgettable!
How to Serve Eggplant Rolls Stuffed with Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, sprinkle extra grated Parmesan and scatter fresh basil leaves over the hot eggplant rolls just before serving. This adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that perfectly complements the cheesy richness.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a simple garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of marinara sauce. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a light pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fancy? Arrange the rolls on a large platter with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a handful of toasted pine nuts for crunch. Alternatively, serve them individually in small ramekins for an elegant appetizer or party dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Eggplant Rolls Stuffed with Cheese Recipe, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the dish even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save these rolls for longer, they freeze quite well. Place uncooked assembled rolls in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as instructed.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the rolls with foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 to 20 minutes until heated through. This method maintains the moistness of the eggplant and keeps the cheese perfectly melty.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses besides ricotta?
Absolutely! While ricotta provides that classic creamy texture, you can experiment by adding goat cheese or cottage cheese for a different flavor profile. Just be cautious about moisture content to keep the filling firm enough to roll.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute vegan ricotta-style cheese, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia egg. Just keep in mind the texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Can I grill the eggplant instead of roasting?
Grilling the eggplant adds a lovely smoky flavor that complements the cheese filling beautifully. Simply brush slices with olive oil, grill until tender and charred marks appear, then proceed with assembling the rolls.
How can I add a little spice to this dish?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes directly into the cheese mixture for a subtle kick that balances the richness without overpowering the other flavors. You can also sprinkle some chili powder into the marinara sauce.
What’s the best way to slice eggplant for rolling?
Cut the eggplant lengthwise into approximately 1/4-inch thick slices. This thickness provides enough flexibility to roll the slices without breaking and ensures they cook evenly during roasting.
Final Thoughts
This Eggplant Rolls Stuffed with Cheese Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the kitchen. Its creamy, cheesy filling wrapped in tender, roasted eggplant slices makes for a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, these rolls are sure to delight. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy eggplant!
Print
Eggplant Rolls Stuffed with Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Italian-inspired eggplant rolls stuffed with a flavorful blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, fresh basil, and garlic, baked in a rich marinara sauce. A perfect vegetarian and gluten-free main course that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
Eggplant Rolls
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Filling
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Sauce and Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Eggplant: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil, then season them with salt and pepper. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast Eggplant: Roast the eggplant slices for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they become tender and pliable enough to roll without breaking.
- Mix Cheese Filling: While the eggplant roasts, combine the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped basil, and minced garlic in a mixing bowl. Stir well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Assemble Rolls: When the eggplant slices are cool enough to handle, spoon about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture onto one end of each slice. Roll the slices carefully and place them seam side down in the baking dish over the marinara sauce.
- Add Sauce and Bake: Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the rolls, ensuring they’re well covered. Bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or until the dish is heated through and bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the eggplant rolls with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves before serving warm.
Notes
- You can grill the eggplant slices instead of roasting them for a smokier flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture if you prefer a bit of heat.
- These eggplant rolls can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving for convenience.
