Baked Eggplant Napoli
Baked Eggplant Napoli features tender eggplant slices topped with a rich tomato and onion sauce, finished with sharp Cheddar cheese — perfect for a comforting, savory meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, sauté chopped onions in peanut oil.
- Add tomato puree, water, salt, oregano, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Layer the sliced eggplant in a baking dish, top with the tomato sauce, and sprinkle with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using olive oil instead of peanut oil. To make this dish even heartier, you can layer in some sautéed ground meat or roasted vegetables like bell peppers. If you're looking for a lighter version, try using a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese instead of sharp Cheddar. This recipe pairs well with sautéed zucchini for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Baked Eggplant Napoli with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like orzo with garlic. For a heartier dinner, consider serving it alongside meatballs with onions (Dawood Basha) for a satisfying feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the cheese from becoming rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Eggplant Napoli contains roughly 550 calories, with 9g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (62% of the Daily Value), calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1985mg per serving (86% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen eggplant for this recipe?
While fresh eggplant is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen eggplant. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before layering it in the dish.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
You can substitute Cheddar with mozzarella for a milder flavor, or use a combination of Gouda and Parmesan for a richer taste. Vegan cheese alternatives can also be used for a dairy-free option.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce or using a spicy cheese. You can also serve it with a side of chili oil for drizzling on top.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).