Eggplant Casserole Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious dish that’ll warm your soul, look no further than this delightful Eggplant Casserole. Packed with flavorful ingredients and a wholesome appeal, this recipe will surely become a family favorite in no time. Whether you’re aiming to incorporate more veggies into your meals or simply craving a cozy and comforting dinner option, this casserole is the perfect choice. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to whip up this scrumptious Eggplant Casserole.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into rounds
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Begin by slicing the eggplants into rounds of about 1/4-inch thickness. Sprinkle salt over the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This helps to draw out any excess moisture from the eggplant.
3. After 15 minutes, pat the eggplant slices dry with a paper towel to remove the salt and moisture.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. This flavorful mixture will be used to season the casserole.
5. Layer the bottom of the greased baking dish with marinara sauce, creating a thin base for the casserole.
6. Arrange a layer of eggplant slices on top of the marinara sauce, ensuring they overlap slightly. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the eggplant slices.
7. Sprinkle a portion of the breadcrumb mixture over the eggplant layer, followed by a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients, creating multiple layers of eggplant, sauce, breadcrumbs, and cheese.
9. Finish the casserole with a final layer of marinara sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
10. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
12. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
13. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and enjoy this comforting Eggplant Casserole with your loved ones.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or trying your hand at cooking for the first time, this Eggplant Casserole recipe is a great addition to your repertoire. Its simple yet delicious combination of flavors will impress your taste buds while nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients. So, next time you’re in the mood for a cozy and satisfying meal, give this recipe a try and savor the mouthwatering goodness of homemade goodness.
