Dinner

Rollatini With Eggplant: Classic Italian Recipe

Name: Rollatini With Eggplant: Classic Italian Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplant, sliced (1/4-inch thick); 1 tsp salt (for eggplant curing); 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced; 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (pork-free); 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped

ByLana Polati April 8, 2026April 8, 2026

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Introduction

Rollatini with eggplant is a delightful Italian dish that combines tender eggplant slices with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella, all baked in a rich marinara sauce. This classic recipe is perfect for a comforting family dinner or an elegant gathering.

In a white round pan with a handle, there are five eggplant roll-ups arranged close together on a white marbled background. Each roll has a dark purple skin and is filled with a middle layer of soft ingredients, topped with melted golden-brown cheese that looks creamy and bubbly. Green herb sauce and small chopped herbs are drizzled and sprinkled on top, adding bright green spots on the cheese. Bits of white shredded cheese are also scattered over the rolls. The edges of the pan have some browned tomato sauce squeezed around the rolls, giving touches of red and orange color. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 medium eggplant, sliced (1/4-inch thick)
1 tsp salt (for eggplant curing)
3 tbsp olive oil
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp black pepper
8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (pork-free)
1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Salt the eggplant slices on both sides and let them sit for 20 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pan-fry the eggplant slices until golden, about 1-2 minutes per side.
Step 4: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped basil, parsley, minced garlic, and black pepper until smooth.
Step 5: Lay 4 eggplant slices on a baking sheet. Spread 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture down the center of each slice.
Step 6: Roll up each eggplant slice, tucking the ends under, and place them seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Step 7: Pour marinara sauce evenly over the rolls. Top with mozzarella slices and sprinkle with chopped oregano.
Step 8: Bake for 25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture.
You can substitute fresh oregano with dried oregano if fresh is not available; use about 1 teaspoon dried.
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover rollatini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or oven until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked eggplant rolls in marinara sauce and bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time.

How to Serve

The image shows five baked eggplant rolls in a white ceramic pan on a white marbled surface. Each roll is covered with a golden-brown melted cheese layer that has some darker browned spots. The rolls have a visible green herb sauce drizzled on top, with small pieces of fresh herbs scattered over the cheese. Along the edges, red sauce peeks out beneath the cheese and eggplant skin, adding a splash of color. The eggplant skin is dark purple and forms the outer layer, holding the filling inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rollatini up to a day before baking. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Bake just before serving to ensure freshness.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

To make this dish vegan, substitute ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based cheese alternatives and use olive oil for frying. Ensure marinara sauce is free from animal products.