Ina Garten Stuffed Eggplant Recipe
Ina Garten Stuffed Eggplant Recipe is flavorful, hearty and perfect for a family dinner. This dish has tender eggplants filled with a delicious mixture of vegetables, cheese and herbs.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Prepare the Eggplants
- Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise. Scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/2-inch border. Chop the flesh and set aside for the stuffing.
Cook the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic. Cook until soft, about five minutes. Stir in chopped eggplant flesh and cherry tomatoes.
Season the Mixture
- Add salt, black pepper and dried oregano to the vegetable mixture. Stir well. Cook for another five minutes until vegetables are tender.
Add Cheese and Breadcrumbs
- Remove from heat. Mix in Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. This adds richness and structure to the stuffing. Stir until evenly combined.
Stuff the Eggplants
- Spoon the mixture into each eggplant half. Press lightly to fill. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each stuffed eggplant.
Bake in Oven
- Place eggplants on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes until cheese is melted and golden. Check occasionally to avoid over-browning.
Add Fresh Basil and Serve
- Remove from oven and let cool for five minutes. Sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the top. Serve warm as a main dish or side.
Notes
- Choose firm, fresh eggplants for better texture.
- Salt the eggplant halves before cooking to reduce bitterness.
- Use a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella for creamy flavor.
- Do not overcook vegetables; they should remain tender but not mushy.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.