Cheesy marinara stuffed eggplant is a delicious and comforting dish filled with savory marinara sauce, flavorful spices, and topped with gooey melted cheese.
Author:Caroline Jones
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:40 minutes
Total Time:55 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 large eggplants, halved lengthwise
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise and score the flesh lightly. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes until softened.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until rich and flavorful.
Remove the roasted eggplants from the oven and gently press the centers slightly. Spoon the marinara mixture generously into each eggplant half.
Top each stuffed eggplant with mozzarella and parmesan cheese for a gooey golden finish.
Bake for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly golden brown. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or a drizzle of basil pesto for extra flavor.
Use low-fat mozzarella to lighten the dish.
Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the filling for extra nutrients.
Choose homemade marinara sauce to reduce added sugar and sodium.