Eggplant Rollatini

Eggplant Rollatini is a classic Italian dish featuring tender slices of eggplant rolled with a creamy ricotta and parmesan filling, then baked in rich marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese. This recipe is naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect meatless meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light & Healthy – No breading or frying, just baked eggplant with a delicious cheese filling.
• Classic Italian Flavors – A comforting combination of ricotta, parmesan, basil, and marinara.
• Low-Carb & Gluten-Free – Perfect for those following a low-carb lifestyle.
• Great for Meal Prep – Can be made ahead and reheated for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise (¼-inch thick slices)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2½ cups marinara sauce
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Extra fresh basil for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Eggplant – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle lightly with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Bake the Eggplant – Bake the slices for 12-15 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
3. Make the Ricotta Filling – In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons of basil, minced garlic, egg, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Assemble the Rollatini – Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture onto each eggplant slice, then roll it up tightly and place seam-side down in the dish.
5. Add Sauce & Cheese – Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the rolled eggplant slices. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and extra parmesan.
6. Bake – Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish & Serve – Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the remaining fresh basil. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 5
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture for a little heat.
• Vegan Option – Use dairy-free ricotta, mozzarella, and an egg substitute.
• Extra Protein – Add cooked spinach or crumbled tofu to the filling.
• Different Cheeses – Swap mozzarella for provolone or add goat cheese for a tangy twist.
• Chunky Marinara – Use a homemade marinara with diced tomatoes and extra garlic for more texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing – Freeze assembled (unbaked) rollatini in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
• Reheating – Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Do I need to peel the eggplant?

No, the skin is tender enough to eat, but you can peel it if preferred.

How do I prevent my eggplant from being too watery?

Salt the slices before baking and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the rollatini and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with eggplant rollatini?

Pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, but homemade marinara will add extra flavor!

Can I grill the eggplant instead of baking it?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky depth to the dish.

How do I make this dish more filling?

Serve it over zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta for a heartier meal.

What’s the difference between eggplant rollatini and eggplant parmesan?

Eggplant rollatini features rolled eggplant slices with ricotta filling, while eggplant parmesan is layered like lasagna with breaded eggplant.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Yes! Try adding cooked ground turkey or sausage to the ricotta filling for extra protein.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use vegan cheese alternatives and an egg substitute to make it dairy-free.

Conclusion

Eggplant Rollatini is a delicious, cheesy, and comforting Italian dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a healthy, low-carb meal. With tender eggplant slices filled with creamy ricotta and baked in marinara sauce, this dish is a must-try for any Italian food lover. Serve it with fresh basil and enjoy every bite!

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