This easy eggplant rollatini is a crowd-pleaser! Thin slices of eggplant are filled with creamy ricotta and wrapped up, then baked in a tasty marinara sauce.
You’ll love how comforting and cheesy this dish is! I like to serve it with some garlic bread on the side—because who can resist extra bread? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggplants: Use medium-sized eggplants for the best results. They should be firm and shiny. If eggplants are hard to find, zucchini can be a good substitute—though the flavor will change a bit.
Cheeses: Ricotta is a must for its creamy texture. If you want a lower-fat option, cottage cheese can work in a pinch. For the mozzarella, try using fresh mozzarella for an extra creamy filling, or swap with a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Marinara Sauce: You might choose store-bought marinara for speed, but homemade sauce really brightens the dish! If tomato-based sauces aren’t your thing, pesto can be a tasty alternative.
How Do I Get My Eggplants to Cook Perfectly?
Getting the eggplants just right is key to this recipe. The salting step helps to draw out excess moisture and bitterness. Make sure you let them sit long enough for this to work.
- Slice eggplants and sprinkle both sides with salt, resting them for 15 minutes.
- Pat them dry before frying to avoid excess oil and sogginess.
- Fry until golden brown, giving them a nice texture for the rollatini.
Take your time with this step, and you’ll have a wonderful base for your dish!
Easy Eggplant Rollatini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Eggplant:
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
For the Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Assembling:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh mixed greens or salad, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep, plus 30 minutes of cooking time. You’ll spend a few minutes frying the eggplant and blending the filling, then enjoy a lovely 25-30 minutes bake in the oven. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes to a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Eggplant:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin pieces and place them on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Sprinkle salt on both sides of the slices and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This helps draw out moisture. Then, pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Fry the Eggplant:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the eggplant slices in batches. Fry each slice for 2-3 minutes on both sides or until they turn golden brown. Make sure to drain them on paper towels afterward to remove excess oil.
3. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until smooth and well blended.
4. Assemble Your Rollatini:
Spread about 1/4 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish. Now, take an eggplant slice, place about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture near one end, and roll it up tightly. Place the rolled eggplant seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this step with the remaining slices.
5. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Once all the rolls are arranged, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the rollatini. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
6. Bake and Serve:
Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Once done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with extra fresh basil, if you like, and serve with a fresh salad or garlic bread alongside!
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Easy Eggplant Rollatini dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Eggplant Rollatini
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While ricotta and mozzarella are traditional, feel free to experiment. You can use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter option, or swap mozzarella for provolone or an Italian cheese blend for different flavors.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the rollatini up to a day in advance. Simply assemble them in the baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftover Rollatini?
Store any leftover rollatini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, simply place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.
What Can I Serve with Eggplant Rollatini?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or a light pasta for a more substantial meal!
