Eggplant and Cheese Bake

This Eggplant and Cheese Bake is a savory and cheesy delight that’s perfect as a main course or a side dish. Tender eggplant is paired with sautéed leeks or onions, garlic, and creamy stracchino cheese, then topped with breadcrumbs and Parmesan for a golden finish. It’s a simple yet indulgent recipe that’s sure to impress!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

  • Eggplant: 1 large, sliced
  • Leek or Onion: 1, finely chopped
  • Garlic: 1 clove, minced
  • Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
  • Water: 1 cup (240 ml)
  • Wheat Flour: 250 g (9 oz)
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (60 g)
  • Stracchino or Crescenza Cheese: 300 g (11 oz)
  • Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated

Directions

Prepare the Eggplant:

  1. Slice the eggplant and sprinkle with salt. Place in a colander to drain for 10-15 minutes to remove excess moisture and bitterness. Rinse and pat dry with paper towels.

Cook the Vegetables:
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped leek (or onion) and garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
3. Add the sliced eggplant to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and pour in 1 cup of water.
4. Cover and cook over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant is tender.

Prepare the Base:
5. In a large bowl, mix the wheat flour with a pinch of salt. Slowly add water to form a smooth dough-like mixture.

Assemble the Bake:
6. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
7. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
8. Spread half of the eggplant mixture into the dish.
9. Layer with stracchino cheese and sprinkle with Parmesan.
10. Add the remaining eggplant mixture on top.

Add the Topping:
11. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top and drizzle with olive oil for a golden crust.

Bake:
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 7-10 minutes to set.
13. Add more Parmesan and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Serve:
14. Let the bake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a comforting main or side dish!

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
  • Serve with crusty bread for a hearty meal.

Cooking Tips

  • For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the eggplant mixture.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping.
  • Substitute stracchino with mozzarella or ricotta if unavailable.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Eggplant: Rich in fiber and antioxidants.
  • Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
  • Garlic and Leeks: Boost immunity and add aromatic depth.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian-Friendly
  • Customizable: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approx.):

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) to maintain the crispy topping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy and cheesy with a delightful golden crust.
  • Perfect for eggplant lovers and cheese enthusiasts.
  • Simple to prepare with a comforting and indulgent result.
  • Great as a crowd-pleasing main dish or versatile side.

Conclusion
This Eggplant and Cheese Bake combines tender vegetables with creamy cheese and a crispy breadcrumb topping for a dish that’s both hearty and comforting. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Give it a try and savor the flavors of this Italian-inspired classic!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use zucchini instead of eggplant?
    Yes, zucchini works well as a substitute.
  • What can I use instead of stracchino cheese?
    Mozzarella, ricotta, or cream cheese are great alternatives.
  • Can I make this dish vegan?
    Yes, use vegan cheese and plant-based milk or broth for cooking.
  • How do I prevent the eggplant from being bitter?
    Salting the eggplant and letting it drain removes bitterness.
  • Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
    Yes, assemble the bake and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
  • What herbs pair well with this dish?
    Basil, oregano, and thyme complement the flavors beautifully.
  • Can I freeze leftovers?
    Yes, freeze the baked dish in portions and reheat in the oven.
  • How do I make the topping extra crispy?
    Mix breadcrumbs with a little olive oil before sprinkling them on top.
  • What other cheeses can I use?
    Parmesan, Gruyère, or Pecorino Romano work wonderfully.
  • Can I add meat to this recipe?
    Yes, cooked ground beef or sausage can be layered with the eggplant.