Ricotta Eggplant Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Tender eggplant layered with rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses make the Ricotta Eggplant Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe an irresistible dish. This comforting casserole is perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or even meal prep for the week. Its unique combination of flavors and textures will delight your taste buds while being simple enough for any home cook to master.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create a stunning dish.
• Flavorful Layers: Each bite offers a delightful mix of creamy ricotta and rich tomato sauce.
• Make Ahead Option: Perfect for meal prepping, this casserole can be assembled in advance and baked when ready.
• Versatile Serving Size: Ideal for large gatherings or as leftovers, serving 8-10 people means it’s great for sharing.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish caters to various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Ricotta Eggplant Casserole, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having the right tools will streamline your cooking process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Saucepan
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for cooking the eggplant evenly without crowding.
• Baking dish: The right size ensures all layers fit perfectly for even cooking.
• Saucepan: Ideal for simmering the flavorful tomato sauce to enhance its taste.

Ingredients

Tender eggplant layered with rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. A comforting casserole perfect for any occasion.

For the Casserole

• 2 large eggplants (about 2 pounds total)
• 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Cheese Mixture

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

For Topping

• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded

How to Make Ricotta Eggplant Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Slice the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds. If desired:
* Salt the eggplant slices for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
* Rinse and pat dry before cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Eggplant

You have two options:

Pan-Frying:

• Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Fry eggplant slices in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Drain on paper towels.

Baking:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Arrange eggplant slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Drizzle with olive oil; season with salt and pepper.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

In a large saucepan:
1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté chopped onion until softened (5-7 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic; cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper; simmer for at least 15 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a medium bowl:
1. Combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, and chopped parsley.
2. Season with salt and pepper; mix well.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish:
1. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom.
2. Layer eggplant slices over the sauce, overlapping slightly.
3. Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the eggplant.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella over that layer.
5. Repeat layering with remaining ingredients ending with tomato sauce and topping it off with remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil:
1. Bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove foil; bake another 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Let it Rest

Let the casserole rest for at least 10–15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld perfectly!

Enjoy your Ricotta Eggplant Casserole! It’s bound to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a comforting weeknight dinner!

How to Serve Ricotta Eggplant Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Serving Ricotta Eggplant Casserole is an opportunity to enhance its comforting flavors with complementary dishes. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balance.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing create a rich contrast to the casserole’s texture.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: This classic pairing offers a crispy side that’s perfect for scooping up the casserole.
• Focaccia: Soft, flavorful focaccia can enhance the meal’s overall taste while providing a nice chewy texture.

Add a Side of Vegetables

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers roasted with herbs bring additional flavors and nutrients.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and is a nutritious complement to the richness of the casserole.

How to Perfect Ricotta Eggplant Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

To elevate your Ricotta Eggplant Casserole, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Bold Seasoning: Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano instead of dried ones for a more vibrant flavor.
• Layer Strategically: Ensure even layering of ingredients for balanced bites throughout the casserole.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try adding different cheeses like fontina or gouda for unique flavor variations.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest after baking; this helps it set and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Ricotta Eggplant Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Enhance your meal experience by pairing your Ricotta Eggplant Casserole with these delightful side dishes.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting companion.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with vegetables provides a healthy grain option that complements the casserole beautifully.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add freshness to your plate.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection offer a smoky contrast to the dish.
5. Couscous Salad: A cold couscous salad with lemon dressing and chopped vegetables adds brightness to the meal.
6. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach will add a pop of green and nutrients without overwhelming flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Ricotta Eggplant Casserole can be simple, but small mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them.

• Not salting the eggplant: Failing to salt the eggplant can lead to a watery casserole. Salting extracts moisture and enhances flavor, so always salt and let the slices sit before cooking.
• Skipping the resting time: Cutting into the casserole too soon can make it fall apart. Allowing it to rest for at least 10-15 minutes helps the layers set and improve texture.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too many eggplant slices at once can lead to steaming instead of frying. Fry in batches to achieve that golden-brown finish.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold ricotta or eggs can affect how well they mix. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother mixture.
• Using low-quality cheese: The flavor and texture of your casserole depend on good cheese. Opt for fresh, high-quality mozzarella and Parmesan for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Ricotta Eggplant Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Ricotta Eggplant Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes or until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Ricotta Eggplant Casserole.

Can I use other vegetables in my Ricotta Eggplant Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.

How do I prevent sogginess in my Ricotta Eggplant Casserole?

Salting and allowing the eggplants to drain before cooking helps remove excess moisture that could lead to sogginess.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

Yes! Simply skip any meat-based additions or use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broths if desired.

Final Thoughts

The Ricotta Eggplant Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or meal prep, it’s sure to please everyone. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Ricotta Eggplant Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the comforting goodness of Ricotta Eggplant Casserole, a delightful dish that layers tender eggplant with rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this casserole is easy to prepare and offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Whether you make it for a special occasion or meal prep for the week, it’s sure to be a hit at your table.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large eggplants
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 large onion
• 4 cloves garlic
• 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
• 15 oz canned tomato sauce
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice eggplants into 1/4-inch rounds; optionally salt and drain for moisture.
2. Cook eggplant: either pan-fry in olive oil until golden brown or bake on a parchment-lined sheet for about 25 minutes.
3. For the sauce, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil, then add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Mix ricotta with Parmesan, beaten egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. In a greased baking dish, layer sauce, eggplant slices, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella. Repeat layers and finish with sauce and cheese.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; remove foil to bake an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
7. Let rest before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 305
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 490mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 50mg