Description
A rich and flavorful eggplant lasagna that’s a lighter, vegetable-forward alternative to traditional lasagna. It features tender roasted eggplant slices layered with creamy ricotta, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch slices
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Brush eggplant slices with olive oil on both sides. Arrange on the baking sheet, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast for 20–25 minutes until golden and tender. Set aside to cool.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, the egg, Parmesan, oregano, and a pinch of pepper. Mix until smooth.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Layer roasted eggplant slices on top. Add half of the ricotta mixture, followed by mozzarella and sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with sauce and mozzarella on top.
- Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Let the lasagna cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Top with fresh basil for garnish.
Notes
- Roast eggplant well to prevent a watery lasagna.
- Using full-fat cheeses will result in better melting and a richer flavor.
- Allowing the lasagna to rest before cutting helps the layers hold together.
- Consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or lentils for extra heartiness.
- For a vegan version, use dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella, and substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice