Irresistible Cheesy Eggplant Rolls: A Mediterranean Delight

The aroma of roasted eggplant wafts through the air, instantly transporting you to a sun-kissed Mediterranean terrace. Imagine the warm embrace of cheesy goodness wrapped in tender eggplant, begging you to take a bite and savor every mouthful. These Cheesy Eggplant Rolls are not just a dish; they are a delightful hug for your taste buds that leaves an unforgettable impression.

As I prepared this recipe, I couldn’t help but reminisce about those family gatherings where we’d all gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter, each person trying to sneak the last cheesy bite. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, these rolls will steal the show and make your kitchen smell divine.

Ingredients for Cheesy Eggplant Rolls

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Eggplants: Select firm eggplants with smooth skin for optimal flavor; they will be the stars of our cheesy rolls.
• Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese brings a luscious texture and balances the flavors beautifully.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: For that gooey melt-in-your-mouth experience that everyone loves.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds depth and savory notes to the filling.
• Fresh Basil: Use fragrant basil leaves to enhance freshness; they pair splendidly with eggplant.
• Tomato Sauce: Opt for your favorite marinara sauce – it’s like a cozy blanket for our rolls.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good olive oil is essential for roasting eggplant until golden perfection.

For additional seasoning:

• Garlic Powder: Adds aromatic depth without overpowering the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients; season generously but taste as you go!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cheesy Eggplant Rolls

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab your trusty baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare Eggplants

Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin strips. Aim for about a quarter-inch thickness—too thick, and they’ll be hard to roll; too thin, and they’ll fall apart like my willpower at dessert time!

Step 3: Roast Eggplants

Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the eggplant slices and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast them in the oven for about 20 minutes until they’re tender and slightly golden.

Step 4: Mix Filling

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and finely chopped fresh basil. Mix well until everything is creamy and evenly distributed.

Step 5: Assemble Rolls

Once your eggplant strips are cool enough to handle, place about two tablespoons of filling at one end of each strip. Roll them up tightly like little cheesy burritos!

Step 6: Bake Rolls

Place your assembled rolls seam-side down in the baking dish. Pour tomato sauce over them generously—remember, we want those rolls swimming in saucy goodness! Bake in the oven for another 15-20 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve these delightful Cheesy Eggplant Rolls hot from the oven! Transfer to plates with extra tomato sauce on top if desired. Enjoy every cheesy bite while reminiscing about past family dinners or planning future ones that revolve around this incredible dish!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the eggplants until they’re tender, then prepare the cheesy filling while they cool. Assemble the rolls next, and finally bake until golden and bubbly for the best results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella, or add herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor. You can also stuff them with sautéed vegetables for a delightful twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cheesy eggplant rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese is melty.

My friend once tried these cheesy eggplant rolls at a dinner party and declared them life-changing. Now, they’re always requested at every family gathering, proving that good food really brings people together!

FAQs:

What are Cheesy Eggplant Rolls made of?

Cheesy Eggplant Rolls are crafted from thinly sliced eggplant, which is rolled around a creamy filling. This filling typically includes a blend of cheeses like ricotta, mozzarella, or cream cheese, combined with herbs and spices for flavor. You can also add cooked vegetables or lean ground meat to enhance the filling. The rolls are then baked in a flavorful tomato sauce until bubbly and golden. This dish is not only delicious but also provides a satisfying texture contrast between the tender eggplant and the cheesy filling.

Can I make Cheesy Eggplant Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Cheesy Eggplant Rolls ahead of time for convenience. After rolling the eggplant with the filling, place them in a baking dish and cover with sauce. You can refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven and bake them until they’re heated through and the cheese is melted. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests without last-minute stress.

Are there any variations for Cheesy Eggplant Rolls?

Absolutely! You can customize Cheesy Eggplant Rolls by changing the filling ingredients. For instance, consider using different types of cheese such as goat cheese or vegan alternatives for a dairy-free version. Adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can also elevate the flavors. If you’re looking for more protein, try incorporating cooked ground chicken or turkey into the cheese mixture. Experimenting with various herbs like basil or oregano will allow you to create your own signature dish.

How do I store leftover Cheesy Eggplant Rolls?

Storing leftover Cheesy Eggplant Rolls is easy! Allow the rolls to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you prefer longer storage, you may freeze them after baking; just ensure they are fully cooled first. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen and then warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Conclusion for Cheesy Eggplant Rolls:

In summary, Cheesy Eggplant Rolls are a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with satisfying textures. This recipe allows for versatility in ingredients while remaining easy to prepare ahead of time. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or main course, these rolls promise to impress your guests and family alike. With various filling options available, you can make each batch unique to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this delicious meal that brings comfort and creativity to your kitchen!

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Cheesy Eggplant Rolls

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Cheesy Eggplant Rolls are a delightful combination of tender, roasted eggplant wrapped around a creamy cheese filling, all baked in a rich tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner. Each roll bursts with flavor and offers a satisfying texture that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Easy to prepare and customizable, these rolls are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

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• 2 medium eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch strips
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Slice eggplants lengthwise into thin strips. Drizzle olive oil on both sides and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast eggplant slices on a baking sheet for about 20 minutes until tender and slightly golden.
4. In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, and basil until well combined.
5. Assemble rolls by placing 2 tablespoons of filling at one end of each eggplant strip and rolling tightly.
6. Arrange rolls seam-side down in the baking dish, pour tomato sauce over them, and bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll (95g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg