Eggplant Roll-Ups
Eggplant Roll-Ups are a delicious and versatile appetizer or main dish featuring tender, breaded eggplant slices filled with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella, then baked in flavorful spaghetti sauce. Perfect for vegetarians or those seeking a hearty yet light meal, they combine crispy textures with gooey cheese goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and slice the eggplants into 1/8-inch thick strips lengthwise.
- Dip each eggplant slice into beaten eggs, then coat with bread crumbs.
- Fry the breaded eggplant slices in oil until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Spread ricotta cheese onto each fried eggplant slice.
- Place a portion of grated mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta.
- Roll up each eggplant slice to form a roll-up.
- Arrange the roll-ups in baking pans or large foil pans.
- Pour favorite spaghetti sauce over the assembled roll-ups.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, try baking the eggplant slices instead of frying them. Simply brush them with oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes until tender. You can also substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lower-fat option. Fresh herbs like basil can enhance the flavor, making these roll-ups even more delightful.
Serving Suggestions
Serve eggplant roll-ups with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad like Tomato Parmesan Salad for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with your favorite spaghetti sauce, which can also be served on the side for extra dipping. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover eggplant roll-ups 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 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave them for a quick option. Ensure to cover with a damp paper towel if microwaving to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Roll-Ups contains roughly 664 calories, with 19g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (44% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 557mg per serving (24% 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 roll-ups in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, simply add the sauce and bake as directed. This makes for an easy meal prep option for busy nights.
What type of oil is best for frying the eggplant?
For frying, a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or vegetable oil, works best. Olive oil can also be used for added flavor, but be cautious of its lower smoke point. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect golden brown crust.
Can I freeze the eggplant roll-ups?
Yes, you can freeze eggplant roll-ups before baking. Assemble them in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as usual. This is a great way to have a delicious vegetarian dish ready at a moment's notice.
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).