Cheesy stuffed eggplant parmesan boats are irresistible delights, packed with rich flavors and perfect for cozy family dinners.
Author:Caroline Jones
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:50 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 10 minutes
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 medium eggplants, halved lengthwise
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
3 cups tomato sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon chili flakes
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
1/4 cup parmesan cheese (for topping)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the eggplant halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Score the flesh lightly and roast for 20 minutes until tender. Carefully scoop out part of the flesh, leaving a border around the edges.
In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, and Italian seasoning. Mix until creamy and well blended. Fold in some chopped roasted eggplant flesh for extra flavor.
Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and chili flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in tomato sauce and simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Spread part of the tomato sauce into a baking dish. Fill each eggplant half generously with the cheese mixture. Top with extra mozzarella, parmesan, and breadcrumbs. Spoon more sauce around the eggplants.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden, bubbly, and slightly crispy on top. Garnish with fresh basil before serving hot.
Notes
For a lighter version, use low-fat ricotta and whole wheat breadcrumbs.
For a gluten-free option, replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs or crushed roasted nuts.
For a vegan version, use plant-based cheese and egg substitute.