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Eggplant Pasta Casserole

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Eggplant pasta casserole is a hearty and comforting vegetarian dish that features roasted eggplant, tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese baked to perfection. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and easy to prepare ahead.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti)
  • 1 large eggplant, diced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for roasting)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cups crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce
  • 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Toss diced eggplant with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and golden.
  3. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. In a skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
  6. Add roasted eggplant to the sauce and stir to combine.
  7. In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with the eggplant sauce, half the mozzarella, and half the Parmesan cheese.
  8. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  9. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  10. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Roasting the eggplant first enhances flavor and prevents it from getting mushy.Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.Add chili flakes or spicy sausage for a spicier option.Great for meal prep—can be assembled ahead and refrigerated.Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a crispy cheese topping.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/eggplant-pasta-casserole/