Classic Eggplant Rollatini with Ricotta & Marinara Sauce
If you're looking for a dish that's comforting, satisfying, and surprisingly simple, Classic Eggplant Rollatini with Ricotta & Marinara Sauce should be at the top of your list.
This Italian-American favorite layers tender eggplant slices with creamy ricotta and hearty marinara sauce for a meal that's both cozy and impressive. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
What is Eggplant Rollatini?
Eggplant Rollatini is a baked dish where thin slices of eggplant are filled with a ricotta cheese mixture, rolled up, and smothered in marinara sauce.
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It's similar to lasagna but swaps pasta for vegetables, making it lighter without losing the richness that everyone loves. The dish is believed to have originated from Italian-American kitchens, adapting traditional Italian techniques to suit local tastes and ingredients.
Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is perfect for this kind of preparation because its firm flesh becomes tender and almost silky when cooked. The combination of textures—melty cheese, hearty eggplant, and robust tomato sauce—makes every bite deeply satisfying.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Eggplant:
- 2 large eggplants
- Salt
- Olive oil
For the Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional for extra flavor)
For the Assembly:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Extra basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Eggplant
Slice the eggplant lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices. Sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial because it helps draw out moisture and any bitterness, resulting in a better texture and flavor.
After salting, rinse each slice under cool water and pat dry with a clean towel. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil and either grill them over medium heat or roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes until tender and flexible but not falling apart.
2. Make the Ricotta Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, egg, salt, pepper, and chopped basil. Add parsley if using. Stir until fully combined and creamy. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when spooned.
3. Assemble the Rollatini
Spread a spoonful of ricotta filling onto one end of each eggplant slice. Roll the slice up carefully but firmly.
In a baking dish, pour a thin layer of marinara sauce to cover the bottom. Place each rolled eggplant seam side down in the dish. Continue until all slices are filled and rolled.
Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the rolls and sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese.
4. Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden. Allow the dish to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Rollatini
- Choose firm, glossy eggplants for the best texture. Avoid ones with soft spots or wrinkled skin.
- Don't skip salting the eggplant. It greatly improves both taste and texture.
- Use fresh ricotta if possible. It’s creamier and less watery than packaged varieties.
- Homemade marinara adds a fresh, vibrant flavor, but a good-quality store-bought sauce can save time without sacrificing taste.
- Add some heat if you like—a pinch of red pepper flakes in the filling or sauce gives a nice kick.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the dish a day in advance and bake just before serving.
Variations You Can Try
- Spinach Ricotta Rollatini: Add chopped, cooked spinach to the ricotta filling for extra nutrition.
- Meat Lovers' Rollatini: Mix cooked ground beef or Italian sausage into the filling.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based ricotta and mozzarella alternatives.
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free as long as the marinara sauce doesn’t contain any hidden gluten.
Experimenting with fillings and sauces keeps this classic exciting and allows you to tailor it to your personal tastes.
Why You'll Love This Dish
Eggplant Rollatini is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. It's vegetarian, easy to customize, and deeply satisfying without being heavy. The layers of roasted eggplant, creamy ricotta, and tangy marinara create a wonderful balance of flavors and textures.
This dish is also a great make-ahead option. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making leftovers a real treat. Serve it alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Plus, it presents beautifully, making it a standout centerpiece whether you’re feeding guests or just treating yourself.
Classic Eggplant Rollatini with Ricotta & Marinara Sauce is proof that comfort food can be elegant and simple at the same time. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this dish is a guaranteed success.
The best part? It's incredibly versatile. You can stick to the classic recipe or get creative with different fillings, cheeses, and sauces. No matter how you tweak it, the essence of the dish remains the same: wholesome, hearty, and utterly delicious.
Try it once, and it might just become a regular favorite in your kitchen. Serve it warm, with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top, and enjoy every luscious bite.
Quick Serving Ideas
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
- Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the extra marinara sauce.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese for a true Italian experience.
Make this Classic Eggplant Rollatini your next kitchen project — it's worth every moment spent!
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Source: Sip and Feast
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