Best eggplant rollatini recipe with spinach ricotta filling

Posted on November 17, 2025

Cheesy Spinach-Ricotta Eggplant Roll-Ups

Cheesy Spinach-Ricotta Eggplant Roll-Ups are a delicious vegetarian alternative to traditional pasta-based dishes like lasagna or cannelloni. This recipe layers rich ricotta cheese, savory spinach, and melty mozzarella inside tender roasted eggplant slices, then bakes them in a tangy marinara sauce for a wholesome, hearty, and satisfying meal. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is actually low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients and protein.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, dinner parties, or even meal prep, this recipe has become a go-to for anyone looking to reduce carbs or incorporate more vegetables into their meals. Unlike heavier pasta casseroles, these eggplant roll-ups offer that same cheesy, saucy satisfaction without weighing you down. You’ll be surprised by how well the roasted eggplant acts as a tender and flavorful stand-in for noodles.

This dish draws inspiration from classic Italian comfort foods, especially eggplant rollatini, but simplifies the process by skipping the breading and frying. Instead, the eggplant is lightly roasted, which reduces calories and enhances its natural flavor. If you’re curious about the background of this versatile vegetable, the Wikipedia article on eggplant offers a fascinating look at its culinary history and nutritional benefits.

Thanks to its layers of flavor and impressive presentation, this recipe works well for both casual meals and more elegant dinners. Whether you’re serving vegetarians, pasta lovers, or anyone seeking lighter dinner options, these roll-ups are sure to please. Want to see how others are assembling their own variations? This Pinterest board of eggplant rollatini ideas is filled with creative visuals and twists that might inspire your next batch.

Best eggplant rollatini recipe with spinach ricotta filling

Cheesy Spinach-Ricotta Eggplant Roll-Ups are roasted eggplant slices rolled around a creamy ricotta-spinach filling, topped with marinara sauce and melty cheese, then baked to bubbly perfection. A delicious, vegetarian, gluten-free alternative to pasta-based dishes.

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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants sliced lengthwise into ¼-inch thick slices
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the filling:
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup cooked spinach squeezed dry and chopped
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 clove garlic minced
Salt and pepper to taste
For assembly:
1 ½ cups marinara sauce
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish optional

Method

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Arrange in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Roast the eggplant slices for 15 to 20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until they are tender and pliable. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, cooked spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Spread a spoonful of the cheese filling onto one end of each eggplant slice and roll up tightly.
Spoon a thin layer of marinara sauce into the bottom of a baking dish. Place the roll-ups seam-side down in the dish.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the roll-ups. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.