🍆 Creamy Ricotta & Spinach Stuffed Eggplant Roll-Ups
Tender slices of roasted eggplant are rolled around a creamy ricotta and spinach filling, then baked in a savory tomato sauce until bubbly and golden. This dish is light yet indulgent, with a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and herby flavors. It’s a fantastic low-carb alternative to pasta-based dishes like lasagna.
📝 Ingredients
For the eggplant:
- 2 large eggplants
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt & pepper
For the filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Extra Parmesan (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare eggplant
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Slice eggplants lengthwise into thin strips
- Brush with olive oil, season with salt & pepper
- Roast for 15–20 minutes until soft and flexible
2. Make the filling
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, chopped spinach, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper
- Stir until creamy and well combined
3. Assemble roll-ups
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish
- Place a spoonful of filling on each eggplant slice
- Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the dish
4. Add sauce & cheese
- Spoon remaining marinara over the rolls
- Sprinkle mozzarella and extra Parmesan on top
5. Bake
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25–30 minutes
- Until cheese is melted and bubbly
6. Serve
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Pair with a fresh green salad
- Serve with garlic bread (or low-carb alternative)
- Enjoy as a main or a hearty side dish
❓ Q&A
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Q2: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely—freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months.
Q3: How do I keep eggplant from being soggy?
- Roast first to remove moisture
- Don’t overload with sauce
Q4: Can I make it vegan?
Yes—use plant-based ricotta and skip the egg (or use a flax egg).
Q5: Can I add protein?
Definitely! Add cooked ground beef, chicken, or lentils to the filling.