Cheesy baked eggplant rounds are a delightful and easy appetizer or side dish, featuring layers of marinara sauce and gooey cheese.
Author:Caroline Jones
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Appetizer/Snack
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 large eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup marinara sauce
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Salt the eggplant rounds and let sit for 15 minutes, then pat dry. Brush both sides with olive oil and place on a baking sheet. Roast for 15–20 minutes until slightly softened.
Remove from oven and top each eggplant round with a spoonful of marinara sauce, followed by a generous layer of mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Return to the oven and bake for another 10–12 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
If you prefer the eggplant extra tender, roast the rounds for an additional 5 minutes before adding the toppings.
Use a sugar-free marinara and consider adding fresh basil leaves under the cheese for extra flavor without added fat.
This recipe is naturally gluten-free; ensure your marinara sauce brand does not use any wheat-based thickeners.