Description
This roasted eggplant and zucchini casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that highlights the best summer vegetables. With layers of roasted eggplant, zucchini, creamy cheese, and aromatic herbs, it’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a side dish to grilled meats. Easy to make, naturally gluten-free, and packed with flavor, this casserole will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
For the Vegetables:
2 medium eggplants, sliced
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Mixture:
1 cup ricotta cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling:
½ cup marinara sauce
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Vegetables: Arrange the sliced eggplant and zucchini on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the roasted eggplant and zucchini slices over the sauce. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the vegetables. Repeat with the remaining eggplant, zucchini, and cheese mixture.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese. Bake in the oven for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- Add cooked ground turkey or sausage for extra protein.
- For a vegan version, substitute plant-based cheeses and use an egg alternative.
- Spice things up by adding red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50–55 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
