Eggplant Roll-Ups with Creamy Ricotta and Spinach

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Elegant yet comforting, these Eggplant Roll-Ups with Creamy Ricotta and Spinach are the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Layers of flavor come together effortlessly in this oven-baked recipe, where thinly sliced, roasted eggplant slices are filled with a luscious ricotta and spinach mixture, then nestled in tangy marinara and topped with Parmesan for that perfect golden finish.

Not only is this recipe meat-free and wholesome, but it’s also a showstopper on any dinner table. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight main or a dinner party centerpiece, it brings elegance without the fuss. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, making it ideal for busy days when you still want something nourishing and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Eggplant Roll-Ups with Creamy Ricotta and Spinach

• Packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty veggies
• Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free
• A great way to enjoy eggplant even if you’re not usually a fan
• Perfect for make-ahead meals or meal prepping
• Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for everyday

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What Kind of Eggplant Should I Use?

Look for medium to large globe eggplants, which are ideal for slicing lengthwise into wide, sturdy strips. The key is to find eggplants that are firm and glossy with smooth skin. Smaller ones tend to be more tender and less bitter, but slightly larger ones are perfect for rolling without tearing.

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Ingredients for the Eggplant Roll-Ups with Creamy Ricotta and Spinach

Each ingredient in this recipe has its role in building flavor and texture:

• Eggplants – Thinly sliced and roasted to make them pliable for rolling, they become tender and subtly smoky.
• Ricotta cheese – The creamy base for the filling; choose whole milk ricotta for richness.
• Fresh spinach – Lightly wilted and mixed into the ricotta to add vibrant color and nutrients.
• Parmesan cheese – Brings a salty, umami punch to the topping and the filling.
• Egg – Helps bind the ricotta filling so it holds inside the roll-ups.
• Garlic – Adds aromatic depth.
• Marinara sauce – Choose a high-quality store-bought sauce or homemade if you prefer. This bathes the roll-ups in bright tomato flavor.
• Olive oil – For roasting the eggplant and sautéing the garlic.
• Salt and pepper – To enhance and balance all the flavors.

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How To Make the Eggplant Roll-Ups with Creamy Ricotta and Spinach

Step 1: Roast the Eggplant

Slice the eggplant lengthwise into thin, even slices. Brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast at 400°F until tender and slightly golden. This step makes them flexible for rolling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta, sautéed garlic, wilted spinach, an egg, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Roll It Up

Spoon the ricotta mixture onto the bottom of each eggplant slice and roll them up gently but tightly.

Step 4: Layer with Sauce

Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place each roll-up seam-side down, then top with more marinara and sprinkle with Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake another 10 minutes to get a golden top.

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Serving and Storing Eggplant Roll-Ups with Creamy Ricotta and Spinach

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people, depending on whether it’s a main or side. Serve warm, straight from the oven, garnished with fresh basil or extra Parmesan.

To store, let the roll-ups cool completely. Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbling.

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What to Serve With Eggplant Roll-Ups?

Garlic Bread

To soak up all that glorious marinara.

Simple Arugula Salad

Peppery greens with lemon vinaigrette offer a fresh contrast.

Roasted Broccolini

Adds crunch and color to your plate.

Creamy Polenta

Soft and comforting, perfect as a base.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

For a sweet-savory touch.

Tomato Basil Soup

An extra layer of cozy.

Grilled Zucchini

For a smoky vegetable pairing.

Herbed Couscous

Quick, fluffy, and absorbs sauces beautifully.

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Want More Vegetarian Dinner Ideas?

If these eggplant roll-ups made your dinner rotation, you’ll love these too:

• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells for another creamy, bake-ahead dinner.
• Easy Veggie Patties when you need something quick and crispy.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna if you’re craving indulgent seafood layers.
• Avocado Egg and Chickpea Salad as a light lunch or vibrant side.
• Taco Ranch Bites for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

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