SPINACH & CHEESE STUFFED EGGPLANT ROUNDS

Name: Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Eggplant Rounds
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 large eggplant (sliced into ½-inch rounds); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped); 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 garlic clove (minced); 1/4 tsp nutmeg; 1 egg (beaten); 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup marinara sauce; fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both hearty and healthy, these Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Eggplant Rounds are the perfect choice. With tender roasted eggplant, a creamy spinach and cheese filling, and a golden, bubbly top, this dish is a delightful way to enjoy a vegetable-forward meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s a fantastic option for a meatless main course, a flavorful side dish, or even a fancy appetizer for gatherings.

Pure Comfort

The combination of soft, roasted eggplant, savory spinach, and melted cheese makes this dish incredibly satisfying. The natural richness of the eggplant pairs beautifully with the creamy filling, while the cheesy topping creates a slightly crisp, golden crust that adds the perfect finishing touch.

Ingredients

What You Need

1 large eggplant (sliced into ½-inch rounds)
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)
½ cup ricotta cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 garlic clove (minced)
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
1 egg (beaten)
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup marinara sauce
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Time to Cook

⏳ Prep Time: 15 minutes
⏳ Cook Time: 25 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 40 minutes

Steps to Make It

Prepare the Eggplant – Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush both sides of the eggplant rounds with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Make the Filling – In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, Parmesan, chopped spinach, garlic, nutmeg, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and the beaten egg until well combined.
Assemble – Spoon a layer of marinara sauce onto each roasted eggplant round. Top with a generous dollop of the spinach-ricotta filling, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake – Return the stuffed eggplant rounds to the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve – Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy!

Make It Perfect

Choose the Right Eggplant – Look for firm, glossy eggplants with smooth skin for the best texture.
Salt the Eggplant – If you have time, sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for 15 minutes before roasting. This draws out excess moisture and reduces bitterness.
Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh spinach and high-quality cheese will enhance the flavors of this dish.

Mix It Up

Go Spicy – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Add Protein – Mix in some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a more robust flavor.
Different Greens – Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for variety.

Perfect Partners

Garlic Bread – A side of crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
Roasted Vegetables – Serve with a medley of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
Simple Salad – A fresh green salad with balsamic dressing complements the richness of the dish.

Busy Day Hero

This dish comes together in under 40 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy nights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to cook.

Work Ahead

Make the Filling in Advance – The ricotta-spinach mixture can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
Pre-Roast the Eggplant – Roast the eggplant slices in advance and store them in an airtight container for quick assembly later.

Save Some For Later

Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Everyone’s Happy

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly and can be made gluten-free by ensuring your marinara sauce and cheese are gluten-free certified.

Good For You Too

Packed with Nutrients – Eggplant is high in fiber and antioxidants.
Calcium & Protein – Ricotta and Parmesan provide essential calcium and protein.
Low-Carb & Satisfying – A great alternative to traditional pasta dishes.

Easy Clean Up

With minimal dishes required—just a baking sheet, mixing bowl, and a spoon—this recipe makes post-dinner cleanup a breeze.

Switch It Up

Try a Different Cheese – Replace mozzarella with provolone for a bolder flavor.
Add More Veggies – Mix in sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture.
Make it Vegan – Use dairy-free cheese and swap ricotta for blended tofu or cashew cream.

Simply Perfect

These Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Eggplant Rounds are easy, satisfying, and full of flavor. Whether served as a main dish or a side, they are guaranteed to impress.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before mixing it into the filling.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes! Assemble the stuffed eggplant rounds but don’t bake them. Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a container. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

4. Can I use another type of cheese?

Absolutely! Try goat cheese, feta, or even a smoked provolone for a unique flavor.

5. How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming soggy?

Salt the slices beforehand to draw out moisture, and avoid overloading with sauce.

6. What can I serve with this?

Pair with a side of grilled chicken, a light salad, or garlic bread.

7. Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! If you limit the marinara sauce and use full-fat cheese, it can fit into a low-carb diet.

Conclusion

These Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Eggplant Rounds are a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings together rich flavors and wholesome ingredients in a single bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, this dish is sure to impress. Try it tonight and enjoy a new favorite!

Expand Your Italian-Inspired Cooking

Mushroom Spinach Pasta – A delightful pasta dish that highlights the same earthy flavors of spinach, making it a great pairing option.
Stuffed Butternut Squash with Feta, Spinach, and Bacon – A wholesome, stuffed vegetable dish that aligns perfectly with the flavors of your eggplant rounds.
Garlic Butter Beef Pasta with a Cheesy Finish – For readers looking for a heartier meal, this creamy, garlicky pasta is a fantastic complement.
Spinach and White Bean Meatball Soup – A warming, protein-rich soup that incorporates spinach in another delicious way.
One-Pot Kale and Quinoa Pilaf – If you’re a fan of greens and grains, this dish offers a nutritious alternative with kale and quinoa.