Name: Ricotta Eggplant Casserole: 7 Reasons to Love This Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

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Ricotta Eggplant Casserole is a delicious layered dish featuring eggplant, ricotta, and marinara sauce. This comforting Italian recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of creamy ricotta and tender eggplant creates a satisfying meal that appeals to both vegetarians and meat lovers alike. If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only wholesome but also bursting with flavor, this casserole is your answer!

Why You’ll Love This Ricotta Eggplant Casserole

This Ricotta Eggplant Casserole offers several benefits that make it a must-try:

Flavorful and satisfying, it’s a great alternative to meat dishes.
Low-carb option for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
Packed with protein from ricotta and egg, making it a nutritious choice.
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Vegetarian-friendly, catering to various dietary preferences.
Easy to customize with your choice of herbs and spices.
Great as leftovers, making it an ideal meal prep option.
Enjoy it as a Eggplant Ricotta Dish or as a side for meat lovers!

Ingredients for Ricotta Eggplant Casserole

Gather these items:

2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

How to Make Ricotta Eggplant Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Sprinkle salt on the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the eggplant slices and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, and basil. Stir until well combined.
Step 5: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the eggplant slices over the sauce, then spread half of the ricotta mixture on top. Add another layer of marinara sauce, followed by the remaining eggplant and ricotta mixture.
Step 6: Finish with a final layer of marinara sauce and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 7: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 8: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Ricotta Eggplant Casserole: 7 Reasons to Love This Dish - Ricotta Eggplant Casserole - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Ricotta Eggplant Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Choose fresh, firm eggplants for the best texture.
Let the assembled casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to set before serving.
For a gluten-free version, ensure your marinara sauce is free from gluten-containing ingredients.
Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese for a unique flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Ricotta Eggplant Casserole

This Eggplant and Ricotta Casserole Recipe can be served in various ways:

Pair it with a fresh salad for a light meal.
Serve it alongside garlic bread for a hearty dinner.
Top with fresh basil leaves before serving for an aromatic touch.

How to Store and Reheat Ricotta Eggplant Casserole

To store, cover the casserole with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This dish is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers easily.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ricotta Eggplant Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Ricotta Eggplant Casserole?

The key to a perfect Ricotta Eggplant Casserole is to ensure the eggplant is well-prepared by salting it to remove excess moisture. This helps to enhance the flavor and prevents the dish from becoming watery.

Can I make Ricotta Eggplant Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you are ready to serve for a quick and easy meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ricotta Eggplant Casserole?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you adequately salt and rinse the eggplant, and don’t skip the cooling time after baking. This will help the layers set and improve the overall texture of the dish.

Variations of Ricotta Eggplant Casserole You Can Try

Here are some variations to consider:

Add layers of spinach for a nutrient boost in your Vegetarian Eggplant Ricotta Casserole.
Substitute zucchini for eggplant for a different flavor profile.
Incorporate ground meat for a heartier version, transforming it into a Baked Eggplant with Ricotta Cheese.

Ricotta Eggplant Casserole: 7 Reasons to Love This Dish - Ricotta Eggplant Casserole - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake or Creamy Tuscan Scallops Recipe. You can also explore Vegetable Zucchini Fritters for a tasty side dish!

For more information on the health benefits of eggplant, you can visit Healthline.