If you’re in the mood for a comfort food that sings with flavor, then look no further than Eggplant Lasagna! This delightful dish is packed with layers of roasted eggplant, savory tomato sauce, and a creamy cheese blend that will make your taste buds dance. You might even find yourself sneaking in a few extra servings because it’s just that good! Fun fact: did you know that eggplants are technically a fruit? This versatile ingredient can transform a simple lasagna into a culinary masterpiece without the need for any meat.

What makes Eggplant Lasagna special is how easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a relaxed family gathering. It’s incredibly satisfying yet light, and each bite brings a burst of flavors that everyone will love, including the kids! If you find yourself loving this dish, be sure to check out our classic Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna for another fantastic pasta option. Dive into this Eggplant Lasagna recipe, and you’re bound to enjoy every layer!

What is Eggplant Lasagna?

So, what’s in a name like Eggplant Lasagna? Well, let’s break it down! First off, the word “lasagna” comes from the Greek word “lasanon,” meaning “chamber pot,” which could leave you giggling when imagining everyone enjoying their delicious meals from a pot! As for eggplant—you might wonder why such a beautiful vegetable deserves the spotlight. After all, it’s often mistaken for a vegetable when it’s really a fruit! It turns out that the old saying “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” holds true for veggie lovers too. So, grab your apron and get ready to impress everyone at the table with this delicious recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Eggplant Lasagna

Eggplant Lasagna offers a delicious surprise that can delight your senses. First, the layers of roasted eggplant provide a wonderful texture that complements the rich tomato sauce and creamy cheese. You’ll love how comforting yet healthy this dish feels, making it a fantastic choice for any meal.

One of the best parts? You can save money by making this easy dish at home instead of ordering takeout. Fresh ingredients, combined with your love and care, can create a flavorful masterpiece that will have everyone coming back for seconds! With the cheesy goodness that oozes in each bite, it sets a wonderful stage for family gatherings or just a night in. And if you enjoy veggie-packed meals, why not take a look at our classic Vegetable Stir-Fry recipe?

How to Make Eggplant Lasagna

Eggplant Lasagna is not only delicious but also surprisingly simple to whip up, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. In just under an hour, you’ll create a hearty dish that’s perfect for the whole family. Let’s explore the process of making this satisfying recipe, one delicious layer at a time!

Key Ingredients for Eggplant Lasagna

To make your own Eggplant Lasagna, you’ll need the following fresh and flavorful ingredients:

2 medium-sized eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the sliced eggplant on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and let it sit for about 15 minutes to draw out moisture. This helps prevent a soggy lasagna.
Roast the Eggplant: Bake the eggplant slices for about 20 minutes or until they are slightly golden and tender. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until it’s creamy and smooth.
Layer the Lasagna: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the eggplant slices over the sauce. Add half of the ricotta mixture on top of the eggplant and spread it out evenly. Then sprinkle with one-third of the mozzarella cheese.
Repeat the Layers: Add another layer of marinara sauce, followed by the remaining eggplant, the rest of the ricotta mixture, and another third of mozzarella cheese. Finish with a final layer of marinara sauce and top with the grated Parmesan and any remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake the Lasagna: Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Cool and Serve: Let the lasagna sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will make it much easier to serve. Garnish with fresh basil if you desire.

Top Tips for Perfecting Eggplant Lasagna

To ensure your Eggplant Lasagna is a smashing success every time, consider these helpful tips:

Thick Eggplant Slices: Keeping your eggplant slices thick can give you more substance in each bite, providing a heartier texture.
Drain Well: If you prefer a firmer texture, after salting the eggplant, rinse and pat them dry to eliminate excess moisture.
Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix in some cottage cheese or add a touch of feta for an exciting variation!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftovers (which might be unlikely because it’s so delicious), storing and reheating your Eggplant Lasagna is easy! Keep the lasagna in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave—just add a splash of water to keep it moist.

Don’t be afraid to dive into the wonderful world of Eggplant Lasagna. Its flavorful layers and creamy textures are bound to create an exciting dinner that everyone will enjoy! Happy cooking!

Eggplant Lasagna

A comforting and flavorful lasagna made with layers of roasted eggplant, marinara sauce, and a creamy cheese blend, perfect for any family meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1 5

Total Time 1 20

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

For the Eggplant

2 medium medium-sized eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds Thick slices provide a heartier texture.

For the Lasagna

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups ricotta cheese Creamy base for the lasagna layers.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese For multiple layers.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For topping the lasagna.
1 large egg Acts as a binder for the cheese mixture.
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Fresh basil for garnish (optional) Adds flavor and color.

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the sliced eggplant on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and let it sit for about 15 minutes to draw out moisture.
Bake the eggplant slices for about 20 minutes or until they are slightly golden and tender. Remove from the oven and set aside.
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy and smooth.

Assembly

In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the eggplant slices over the sauce. Add half of the ricotta mixture on top and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle with one-third of the mozzarella cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining marinara sauce, eggplant, ricotta mixture, and another third of mozzarella cheese. Top with a final layer of marinara sauce, grated Parmesan, and any remaining mozzarella cheese.

Baking

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Let the lasagna sit for about 10 minutes before slicing to make it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

For best results, keep your eggplant slices thick and drain well after salting. You can customize the cheese by mixing in cottage cheese or feta for a twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Eggplant Lasagna, Healthy Lasagna, Vegetarian Lasagna