Go Back Email Link

Cheesy Baked Eggplant

Cheesy Baked Eggplant - the epitome of hearty comfort food that's not only delicious but also nutritious! Dive into this cheesy goodness made with fresh eggplants, indulgent cheese, and a sprinkle of love. Perfect for those looking for a flavorsome, vegetarian alternative.
5 from 2 votes
Print Share Tweet Pin
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutritions

Nutrition Facts
Cheesy Baked Eggplant
Amount per Serving
Calories
270
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
15
g
23
%
Cholesterol
 
30
mg
10
%
Sodium
 
550
mg
24
%
Carbohydrates
 
20
g
7
%
Fiber
 
9
g
38
%
Sugar
 
10
g
11
%
Protein
 
13
g
26
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Ingredients

  • * Eggplant: 2 medium-sized around 1 lb or 450g each
  • * Olive oil: 3 tbsp 45 ml
  • * Salt: 1 tsp 5 ml
  • * Black pepper: ½ tsp 2.5 ml
  • * Tomato sauce: 2 cups 475 ml
  • * Grated mozzarella cheese: 1½ cups 340g
  • * Grated parmesan cheese: ¾ cup 85g
  • * Fresh basil: 1 bunch chopped, around 30g
  • * Garlic: 3 cloves minced
  • * Red pepper flakes: ¼ tsp optional

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Slice the eggplants into ¼-inch (0.6 cm) thick rounds. Lay them out on a baking sheet.
  • Drizzle the olive oil over the eggplant slices. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  • Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until the slices begin to turn slightly golden.
  • While the eggplant is baking, prepare the sauce. In a pan over medium heat, sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in the tomato sauce, add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Remove eggplant slices from the oven. Spread a layer of tomato sauce on each slice, then sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
  • Put the cheesy eggplant slices back into the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Once done, sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving.

Notes

TIPS:
  1. For an extra crispy base, grill the eggplant slices before baking.
  2. To boost flavor, add roasted bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
  3. The key to a perfect Cheesy Baked Eggplant is to ensure the slices aren’t too thick or too thin.
  4. For a vegan version, opt for plant-based cheese alternatives.
  5. Letting the Cheesy Baked Eggplant sit for a few minutes after baking helps in soaking up the flavors.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
  • This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread on the side.
  • Consider laying over a bed of cooked quinoa or brown rice for added texture.
  • Drizzle with a touch of olive oil or sprinkle some chili flakes for an extra kick.
  • Cheesy Baked Eggplant also works wonderfully as a sandwich filling for the next day.