The Ultimate Baked Eggplant Pasta Recipe

This baked eggplant pasta recipe is a delightful combination of tender chunks of eggplant, penne pasta, juicy tomatoes, and melty ricotta and mozzarella cheese, all baked together in a casserole dish to create a hot and bubbly comforting meal. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with family and friends.

Why I Love This Eggplant Pasta Recipe

• Cheesy Goodness: This recipe is packed with Italian cheeses like mozzarella and ricotta for a rich and creamy flavor in every bite.
• Savory Flavors: The combination of garlic, eggplant, and tomatoes creates a savory and satisfying dish that’s perfect for pasta lovers.
• Quick and Easy: With a simple sauté and bake method, this recipe comes together in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here are the key ingredients required to make this delicious baked eggplant pasta:

• Pasta: Penne pasta is recommended, but you can use any type of pasta you like.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the ingredients.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a flavorful kick to the dish.
• Eggplant: Choose fresh eggplants and dice them into cubes.
• Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes or fresh diced tomatoes work well.
• Cheese: A blend of ricotta and mozzarella cheese for the perfect cheesy consistency.
• Basil: Fresh basil adds a fragrant touch to the dish.

How to Make Eggplant Penne Pasta

Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and satisfying baked eggplant pasta:

1. Prep: Preheat the oven and cook the pasta al dente.
2. Sauté: Sauté the eggplant with garlic and tomatoes until tender.
3. Cheesy Layer: Stir in the ricotta and mozzarella cheese for a creamy texture.
4. Assembly: Combine the cooked pasta with the eggplant mixture, basil, and olive oil in a baking dish.
5. Bake: Top with cheese and bake until bubbly and golden.

Recipe Tips

• Al Dente Pasta: Cook the pasta just right to avoid mushiness after baking.
• Skip Baking: For a quicker option, skip the baking step and serve the pasta straight from the skillet.
• Add More Veggies: Customize the recipe by adding extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this baked eggplant pasta with a side of focaccia bread and a refreshing salad for a complete and satisfying meal. It also goes well with appetizers like stuffed grape leaves or chicken skewers.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Pasta

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Easily reheat portions in the microwave or oven.

More Eggplant Recipes

For more delicious eggplant recipes, check out our collection of mouthwatering dishes featuring this versatile vegetable.