Ingredients

• 2 medium eggplants (sliced lengthwise into thin strips)
• 400 g ground beef
• 2 shallots (finely chopped)
• 200 g ricotta cheese
• 100 g Parmigiano Reggiano (grated)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 300 ml tomato sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
• Salt to taste

Steps to Make Eggplant and Beef Rollatini

1. Prepare the Eggplants:
   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin strips, about 5 mm (¼ inch) thick. Lightly sprinkle both sides with salt and set aside for 10 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture and bitterness.
   • After 10 minutes, pat the eggplant slices dry with a paper towel.
   • Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Grill the eggplant slices in batches, cooking each side for 2-3 minutes until tender and slightly golden. Set aside on a plate to cool.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallots and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
   • Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook the beef for about 7-8 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked through.
   • Remove from heat and allow the beef to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Cheese Filling:
   • In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 70 g of grated Parmigiano Reggiano, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
   • Once the ground beef has cooled, add it to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined. This will be the filling for the eggplant rolls.
4. Assemble the Rollatini:
   • Take one grilled eggplant slice and place a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture at the wider end of the slice. Roll it up tightly from the wide end to the narrow end, creating a neat roll.
   • Repeat this process for all the eggplant slices, placing each roll seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Add the Tomato Sauce:
   • Once all the eggplant rolls are assembled and placed in the baking dish, pour the tomato sauce evenly over the top of the rolls. Make sure each roll is covered with sauce.
   • Sprinkle the remaining 30 g of grated Parmigiano Reggiano over the top of the sauce for added flavor and texture.
6. Bake the Rollatini:
   • Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake the rollatini for 25 minutes.
   • After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
   • Remove from the oven and allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the Eggplant and Beef Rollatini hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Sugar: 8 g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can substitute ground beef with other types of meat, such as ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Each type of meat will bring a different flavor profile, so feel free to choose based on your preference.
2. What can I substitute for ricotta cheese? If you don’t have ricotta, you can use cottage cheese, mascarpone, or even cream cheese as a substitute. Just keep in mind that each will have a slightly different texture and flavor.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based ground meat alternatives.
4. Do I have to grill the eggplants? Grilling the eggplants helps to soften them and adds a smoky flavor to the dish, but if you prefer, you can also roast the eggplant slices in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, Eggplant and Beef Rollatini can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the rolls and cover them with tomato sauce, then store the dish in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake as instructed.

Tips for Making the Best Eggplant and Beef Rollatini

1. Choose the Right Eggplants: Select firm, medium-sized eggplants with smooth skin. Smaller eggplants tend to be less bitter and have fewer seeds, making them ideal for this dish.
2. Season the Meat Well: The ground beef should be well seasoned with paprika, pepper, and salt to enhance the flavor of the filling. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth.
3. Don’t Skip the Grilling: Grilling or pre-cooking the eggplant slices is essential to ensure that they are tender and easy to roll. It also adds a nice smoky flavor that complements the tomato sauce.
4. Use High-Quality Tomato Sauce: A good-quality tomato sauce will make a big difference in the overall flavor of the dish. If possible, use homemade tomato sauce or a high-quality store-bought version.
5. Let It Rest: After baking, let the rollatini rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Storage Tips

• In the Refrigerator: Leftover Eggplant and Beef Rollatini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
• In the Freezer: You can freeze the unbaked rollatini for up to 3 months. Assemble the rolls, cover with sauce, and freeze in an airtight container. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Conclusion

Eggplant and Beef Rollatini with Ricotta and Parmesan is a wonderful dish that combines rich flavors with comforting textures. The tender eggplant pairs beautifully with the savory beef filling, while the creamy ricotta and sharp Parmigiano Reggiano add a luxurious touch. Smothered in tomato sauce and baked to perfection, this dish is both satisfying and elegant. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, these rollatini are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy the flavors of Italy with this hearty, flavorful dish!