Easy Eggplant Casserole Recipe

With its layers of tender eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese, Eggplant Casserole is a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week. This recipe, blending the robust flavors of fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley, creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy eggplants, whether you’re an avid fan or trying them for the first time.

As a self-taught chef with 40 years of vegetarian cooking under my belt, I’ve crafted this eggplant casserole recipe to be both nutritious and delicious. My blog is a treasure trove of recipes that cater to all, regardless of your dietary preferences. This particular dish is a testament to my commitment to creating easy-to-follow, flavorful meals that everyone can enjoy.

Why You Will Love Making Eggplant Casserole

Embarking on the eggplant casserole journey brings a plethora of delights to your kitchen. Here’s why this dish will become a go-to in your meal rotation:

• Simple: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all levels.
• Health Benefits: Eggplants are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this casserole not just tasty but also good for you.
• Versatility: This casserole can easily be adapted to include your favorite vegetables or protein, making it a new experience every time.
• Comfort Food: There’s something incredibly comforting about a bubbly, cheesy casserole straight out of the oven.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and reheat for a no-fuss dinner option during busy weekdays.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its universally appealing flavors are sure to satisfy both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll need all the ingredients in the photograph below.

How to Make Eggplant Casserole with Step-By-Step Instructions

A complete printable recipe and the measurements in both US customary and metric are available in the recipe card below.

Creating this cheesy eggplant casserole recipe is so easy. Follow these simple steps to achieve a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion.

Preparing the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 355°F (180°C) and heat your grill to medium-high. This ensures that the oven is ready for baking as soon as you’ve layered your ingredients. Next, slice the eggplants very thin, preferably with a mandolin for uniform thickness. Season them well with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.

Grilling the Eggplant

Grill the eggplant slices on a baking sheet in batches until they are browned on both sides. This step adds a smoky flavor and a great texture to the casserole. Once grilled, set them aside.

Layering the Casserole

Grease a baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. Start layering your casserole with the grilled eggplant slices, then add a layer of marinara sauce, followed by a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers in the casserole dish until all your ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake!

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese has melted beautifully.

Garnish & Serve

Garnish and serve your eggplant casserole hot, topped with freshly sliced parsley and basil for a burst of color and freshness.

Recipe Notes and Expert Tips

To make sure your Southern eggplant casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips and helpful notes:

• How can I prevent my eggplant slices from becoming too soggy? Before grilling, sprinkle your eggplant slices with salt and let them sit in a bowl for about 20 minutes. This process helps draw out moisture and reduce bitterness. Also, be sure not to over-layer the sauce.
• Thin Slices: Using a mandolin for slicing the eggplant guarantees they cook evenly and become perfectly tender in the casserole.
• No Grill: If you don’t have a grill, you can roast the eggplant slices in the oven or cook them in a pan on the stove.
• Add Crunch: Top your casserole with bread crumbs or crushed crackers to add a crunchy layer.
• Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for varying flavors and textures. A mix of cheddar cheese, mozzarella, ricotta, or even goat cheese can add an interesting twist.
• Herb Freshness: Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor and color contrast to the dish, but if you don’t have them on hand, a sprinkle of dried herbs can also do the trick.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. It’s a great way to save time on busy days. Just remember to add a few minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from cold.

How to Store Leftover Eggplant Casserole

Enjoying your eggplant casserole doesn’t end with the meal. Here’s how to keep your leftovers tasting great:

• Cool & Airtight: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature and then transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. 
• Refrigerate or Freeze: You can keep the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the container with the date.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then bake in the oven or heat in the microwave until warmed through. Covering it with foil when reheating in the oven can prevent it from drying out.

What to Serve with Eggplant Parmesan Casserole

Pairing the right sides with your eggplant casserole can turn it into an unforgettable meal. Here are some ideas that complement its rich flavors:

Fresh Salad

A fresh, crisp salad is the perfect counterpoint to the hearty richness of the casserole. Try our 7-Layer Salad or easy Caprese Salad for a refreshing bite.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic accompaniment that pairs wonderfully with the tomato sauce and cheese in the casserole. Its crispy texture and flavorful bite make it a crowd-pleaser. Turn our French Bread recipe into Garlic Bread by slathering on some garlic herb butter and baking it for a few minutes until crispy.

Air Fryer Vegetables

For a lighter side, try air fried vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans. You can season them lightly with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon for a bit of zest. This adds color and nutrition to your meal without overpowering the main dish.

Quinoa or Couscous

If you’re looking for something a bit more filling but still light, a side of quinoa or couscous can be a great addition. These grains are mild in flavor, making them a versatile complement to the eggplant casserole. They also add a wonderful texture contrast and are a good source of protein and fiber.

More Cheesy Casserole Recipes You Will Love

• Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
• Asparagus Casserole
• Cheesy Southern Pineapple Casserole
• Broccoli Cheese Casserole
• Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

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