Eggplant Rolls
Savory eggplant rolls filled with seasoned ground meat and cheese, baked in tomato sauce. Perfect for a hearty, flavorful meal that appeals to both vegetarians and meat lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and peel the eggplant; slice lengthwise into 1/4-inch slices and soak in salted water for 10 minutes.
- Pat the eggplant slices dry with a paper towel.
- In a large skillet, grease or spray with Pam, and braise the eggplant slices until tender.
- Drain the eggplant slices on towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground hamburger, bread crumbs, Lipton onion soup mix, beaten egg, and shredded cheese.
- Place a spoonful of the meat mixture on each eggplant slice and roll up.
- Spread tomato or spaghetti sauce in a baking dish and place the eggplant rolls seam-side down.
- Cover with additional sauce and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes or until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, try adding some chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the meat mixture. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure to soak the eggplant thoroughly to reduce any bitterness and improve texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the eggplant rolls hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor. They pair beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Mediterranean recipes like Marinated Tomatoes And Cucumbers or a light pasta dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the eggplant rolls in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This helps maintain their moisture and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Rolls contains roughly 459 calories, with 19g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (41% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 995mg per serving (43% 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 rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the eggplant rolls a day in advance. Assemble them in the baking dish and cover with sauce, then refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing them in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of Lipton onion soup mix?
If you don't have Lipton onion soup mix, you can make a homemade version by combining dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and a bit of salt. This will give you a similar flavor profile while allowing you to control the ingredients.
Is it possible to freeze eggplant rolls?
Yes, you can freeze eggplant rolls before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, assemble them and place in a freezer-safe dish. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed. If baked, cool completely before freezing, then reheat in the oven for best results.
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).