Ina Garten Eggplant Lasagna Recipe

The Ina Garten Eggplant Lasagna Recipe is rich, cozy and full of flavor. This dish uses roasted eggplant instead of pasta.

It feels lighter but still very filling. The layers are cheesy, saucy and soft. It is perfect for family dinners or guests.

If you want to learn How to make Ina Garten Eggplant Lasagna, this guide will help. I will also share the exact Ingredients for Ina Garten Eggplant Lasagna and simple tips.

My Experience With This Recipe

I first made this recipe when I wanted a meatless dinner. I love lasagna but wanted something lighter. The roasted eggplant surprised me.

It was soft and tasty. The cheese melted perfectly. The sauce tasted rich and warm.

Everyone asked for seconds. Since then, this Ina Garten Eggplant Lasagna Recipe is my favorite comfort meal.

Recipe Card Info

• Recipe Name: Ina Garten Eggplant Lasagna
• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Calories: 390 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Baking sheets
• Large baking dish
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula
• Oven mitts

Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Eggplant Lasagna

• Eggplants – 2 large, sliced lengthwise
• Olive oil – 4 tablespoons
• Salt – 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
• Marinara sauce – 3 cups
• Ricotta cheese – 1½ cups
• Mozzarella cheese – 2 cups, shredded
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
• Egg – 1 large
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Fresh basil – ¼ cup, chopped

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is best for roasting eggplant slices evenly.

2. Prepare the Eggplant

Slice eggplant lengthwise. Brush both sides with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper evenly.

3. Roast the Eggplant

Place slices on baking sheets. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes. Flip halfway through.

4. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, garlic and basil. Stir until smooth and creamy.

5. Lower Oven Temperature

Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) for baking the lasagna evenly without burning cheese.

6. Start Layering

Spread marinara sauce in the baking dish. Add eggplant slices. Spread ricotta mixture gently on top.

7. Add Cheese Layer

Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the ricotta layer. This adds rich flavor and texture.

8. Repeat the Layers

Repeat sauce, eggplant, ricotta and cheese layers until ingredients are used. Finish with cheese on top.

9. Bake the Lasagna

Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Cheese should melt and bubble nicely.

10. Rest and Serve

Let the lasagna rest for ten minutes. This helps slices hold shape when serving.

Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Eggplant Lasagna

• Use firm eggplants with shiny skin.
• Roast eggplant fully to avoid watery layers.
• Use good-quality marinara sauce.
• Let lasagna rest before cutting.
• Add fresh basil for bright flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping eggplant roasting.
• Using too much sauce, making it soggy.
• Cutting lasagna too soon.
• Overbaking, which dries the cheese.
• Using thin eggplant slices that break easily.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this lasagna with a fresh green salad. Garlic bread or focaccia works well too. A light soup makes a great starter. This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner gatherings.

Variations You Can Try

• Add spinach to the ricotta mixture.
• Use zucchini slices with eggplant.
• Add red pepper flakes for heat.
• Use vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
• Add mushrooms for extra texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to four days.
• Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C).
• Cover with foil while reheating.
• Freeze portions for up to two months.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	390 kcal
Fat	26 g
Protein	22 g
Carbohydrates	18 g
Fiber	5 g
Sodium	620 mg

Health Benefits

Eggplant is rich in fiber and antioxidants. It supports heart health and digestion. Using eggplant instead of pasta lowers carbs. Cheese adds protein and calcium. This meal feels indulgent but balanced.

FAQs about Ina Garten Eggplant Lasagna Recipe

Do I need to peel the eggplant before cooking?
No, peeling is not needed. The skin softens during roasting and helps slices hold shape.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it one day early. Cover and refrigerate, then bake before serving.

Why is my lasagna watery?
Eggplant may not be roasted enough. Roasting removes moisture and prevents soggy layers.

Can I freeze eggplant lasagna?
Yes, freeze after baking and cooling. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months.

Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, cooked ground beef or turkey can be added between layers if desired.

Final Thoughts

The Ina Garten Eggplant Lasagna Recipe is comforting, simple and full of flavor.

Now you know How to make Ina Garten Eggplant Lasagna step by step. The Ingredients for Ina Garten Eggplant Lasagna are easy to find.

This dish is perfect for cozy dinners or guests. Once you try it, it will become a regular favorite at your table.