Cheesy Eggplant Sticks
Cheesy Eggplant Sticks are crispy, savory snacks with melted cheddar and aromatic garlic, perfect for appetizer platters or casual snacking, appealing to cheese lovers and vegetable fans alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and quarter the eggplant lengthwise; cut into smaller wedges if using regular eggplant and place on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Mix melted butter, pressed onion, and minced garlic.
- Brush the mixture onto the eggplant sticks.
- Broil the eggplant about 5 to 7 minutes until lightly browned.
- Turn the eggplant and brush with more butter.
- Broil for an additional 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over the eggplant.
- Broil until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tasty twist, try adding some Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the butter mixture. If you don’t have Cheddar cheese, Gruyère or Mozzarella can work well too. Ensure the eggplant is not too thick to allow even cooking. You can also sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top for added crunch before broiling.
Serving Suggestions
These Cheesy Eggplant Sticks make a great appetizer or side dish and pair beautifully with Dilly Dip For Vegies. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or grilled meats for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, consider serving with Cousin Maddy'S Lemon Pie for a refreshing dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cheesy eggplant sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the cheese remains melted and bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Eggplant Sticks contains roughly 273 calories, with 9g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), calcium (15% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 472mg per serving (21% 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 prepare the eggplant in advance?
Yes, you can prep the eggplant sticks and brush them with the butter mixture ahead of time. Store them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before broiling them when ready to serve. Just make sure to bring them back to room temperature before cooking for even results.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based margarine. This will still provide flavor and help the seasonings adhere to the eggplant, while making it suitable for vegan diets.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the butter mixture before brushing it onto the eggplant. Another option is to serve with a spicy dipping sauce for those who enjoy a kick.
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).