Cheesy Eggplant Casserole: A Family Favorite Recipe
Our cheesy eggplant casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even the pickiest eaters in your family will be asking for seconds. This oven-roasted dish requires no peeling, just layering, baking, and enjoying! Prepare this simple, yet flavorful dish this week and elevate your dinner table.
Growing up, I was surrounded by quick and easy casseroles. They were a fantastic way to use up leftovers and transform vegetables into delectable dishes. As my palate matured, I began experimenting with various produce, and this cheesy eggplant casserole quickly became a family favorite. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a regular on our dinner menu.
Do You Need to Peel Eggplant Before Baking?
For this recipe, peeling the eggplant is entirely optional. I personally prefer to leave the skin on because the heat of the oven will tenderize it, and the skin contains valuable nutrients that I want to preserve. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, you can certainly peel the eggplant beforehand. Keep in mind that peeling the eggplant will result in a softer, more delicate dish.
When the eggplant is cut into bite-sized pieces and combined with other ingredients, the texture of the skin becomes barely noticeable. Similar to our Eggplant Fries, where breading helps hold the pieces together, the skin in this casserole provides a bit of structure, but it’s not essential. Feel free to experiment and see which method you prefer!
Ingredient Notes for the Best Eggplant Casserole
To make this delicious eggplant casserole, you’ll need approximately 4 medium-sized eggplants to fill a 9×13 inch casserole dish. If you prefer a smaller portion, you can halve the recipe and use a 9×9 inch dish, which will serve about 5 people instead of 12.
The seasonings are entirely up to your personal preference. I typically use a simple combination of salt, pepper, and a touch of Italian seasoning. To ensure the vegetables stay tender and flavorful, toss them with olive oil before baking in the first step. This helps the seasonings adhere and adds a rich, savory flavor.
Can You Use Frozen Eggplant in this Casserole?
While roasting frozen vegetables is certainly possible, the texture might not be as ideal as using fresh eggplant. If you choose to use frozen eggplant, follow the temperature and timing guidelines in the linked article. Ensure the eggplant is already diced into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Keep in mind that the texture will be softer compared to fresh eggplant, but it’s a convenient option when fresh eggplant isn’t available.
Transforming Roasted Eggplant into Eggplant Parmesan Casserole
To elevate this dish from simple roasted vegetables to a truly decadent casserole, we need to add cheese, right? The best way to do this is with two layers of shredded mozzarella cheese and parmesan. Think of it as a deconstructed version of your favorite Eggplant Parmesan dish! The combination of tender eggplant, melted mozzarella, and savory parmesan creates a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more.
What Other Ingredients Can Be Added to this Eggplant Casserole?
If you want to add a spicy kick to this dish, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or dry Sriracha. I’ve successfully incorporated this into our Old Fashioned Carrot Casserole, and it was a hit with guests. Add the spice when you toss the eggplant with olive oil, ensuring it coats the pieces evenly and deepens the flavor during roasting.
Enhancing Texture with Breadcrumbs
I’ve also experimented with topping this casserole, and our Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes, with breadcrumbs. This adds a delightful textural element, creating a crispy, golden-brown layer that complements the soft, cheesy interior. The breadcrumbs bake into the cheese, creating a super fun addition that elevates the dish.
Adding Spaghetti Sauce for a Classic Italian Twist
For an extra layer of flavor, consider tossing the roasted eggplant with about 1 cup of spaghetti sauce before layering it with the cheeses. This will transform the casserole into a dish that more closely resembles the classic Italian comfort food you know and love. The spaghetti sauce adds a depth of flavor that complements the eggplant and cheese perfectly.
Eggplant Casserole Recipe
Justine
15
mins
45
mins
12
Print Recipe
Equipment
-
1 9×13 casserole dish
-
1 sheet pan
Ingredients
-
4
pounds
eggplant,
cut into bite size pieces, 4 medium eggplants -
1
tsp
salt -
1
tsp
pepper -
1
tsp
Italian seasoning -
2
tbsp
olive oil -
1
cup
mozzarella cheese -
1/4
cup
parmesan cheese
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 395F. Slice eggplants into bite size pieces, put into a bowl with olive oil and seasonings, toss to coat. Pour on to sheet pan and bake for 30 minutes.
-
Spray 9×13″ casserole dish with non stick spray and pour in half roasted eggplant, then layer half the mozzarella cheese, layer with rest of eggplant, the remaining mozzarella and top with parmesan cheese.
-
Bake in the oven for 15 minutes or until golden brown and cheese is bubbling. Serve immediately for best results.
Nutrition
2
oz,
Calories:
97
kcal,
Carbohydrates:
9
g,
Protein:
4
g,
Fat:
6
g,
Saturated Fat:
2
g,
Polyunsaturated Fat:
0.5
g,
Monounsaturated Fat:
3
g,
Cholesterol:
9
mg,
Sodium:
288
mg,
Potassium:
365
mg,
Fiber:
5
g,
Sugar:
5
g,
Vitamin A:
123
IU,
Vitamin C:
3
mg,
Calcium:
79
mg,
Iron:
0.5
mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Side Dish
American
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How to Save Leftovers for Later Enjoyment
We’ve previously discussed How to Freeze Eggplant, and this method can be applied to leftover casserole as well. Allow the casserole to cool completely, wrap it tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly mushier upon reheating. For optimal texture, I recommend storing the casserole in the refrigerator and enjoying it within 3 days.
This cheesy eggplant casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Experiment with different seasonings, cheeses, and toppings to create your own unique variation of this classic comfort food. Enjoy!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste preferences. For a richer flavor, try using a combination of different cheeses, such as provolone or fontina. You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms, to create a more complex and nutritious dish.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this cheesy eggplant casserole is a recipe that anyone can master. The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, and the results are consistently delicious. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a warm and comforting meal that will satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends.
This casserole is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Eggplant is a nutrient-rich vegetable that’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. By combining it with cheese and seasonings, you can create a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. It’s a win-win for your taste buds and your body!
Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with this recipe. Add your own personal touch to make it truly your own. Whether you prefer a spicier flavor, a richer cheese sauce, or a different topping, the possibilities are endless. The most important thing is to have fun in the kitchen and enjoy the process of creating a delicious and memorable meal.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a cheesy eggplant casserole that will become a new family favorite. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings. It’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.