Baked Eggplant Tomato Ricotta Bake

Name: Baked Eggplant Tomato Ricotta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants, sliced; 3 cups fresh tomato sauce; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Collection

I absolutely love this Baked Eggplant Tomato Ricotta Bake! The layers of tender, roasted eggplant combined with a rich tomato sauce and creamy ricotta create a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing. It’s simple yet elegant, making it perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Plus, the blend of flavors just gets better as it bakes, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully. I’m excited to share this delicious recipe with you!

Created by

Elspeth Murray

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:42:35.308Z

When I first made this dish, I was amazed by how accessible it was to prepare. The eggplants were perfectly roasted, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through, which complemented the rich and tangy tomato sauce. I love how easy it was to assemble everything in layers! Each bite provides a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a fulfilling vegetarian option.

One change I made during a second attempt was to add fresh basil and a sprinkle of parmesan on top before baking, which took this dish to another level! If you can, I highly recommend it; the aroma that fills your kitchen is simply irresistible.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Layers of roasted eggplant add depth and flavor
Rich ricotta creates a creamy texture
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep

Understanding the Layers

The key to achieving the perfect texture in this Baked Eggplant Tomato Ricotta Bake lies in how you prepare the eggplant. Salting the slices helps draw out excess moisture, which not only prevents the dish from becoming watery but also enhances the eggplant's flavor. After salting for about 15 minutes, ensure you rinse off the salt and pat the slices dry thoroughly before using them in the layers. This process helps the eggplant caramelize beautifully during baking, enhancing the overall taste.

When it comes to layering, you want to make sure that the ingredients are well distributed. Start with a layer of tomato sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking, followed by the eggplant slices. Proper layering not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the dish but also allows for even cooking. Each ingredient has its moment to shine, as the ricotta adds creaminess while the mozzarella creates that irresistible gooey texture we all love.

Perfecting Your Tomato Sauce

Using fresh tomato sauce elevates this dish significantly. If you have time, consider making your own sauce from ripe tomatoes, garlic, and herbs; simmering it until thickened will yield a richer flavor profile. On the other hand, if you're short on time, opt for a high-quality store-bought sauce. Look for options without added sugars or preservatives to ensure a fresher taste that complements the eggplant and cheeses beautifully.

Don’t hesitate to customize your sauce. Adding a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat or a splash of balsamic vinegar can bring out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. Once the sauce is ready, let it simmer briefly with sautéed garlic and oregano to marry the flavors. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to bubble and releases a fragrant aroma—this step is crucial for enriching the overall flavor of the bake.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious Baked Eggplant Tomato Ricotta Bake.

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants, sliced
3 cups fresh tomato sauce
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Have all your ingredients ready before starting for a smooth preparation process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Baked Eggplant Tomato Ricotta Bake.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the eggplant.

Prepare the Eggplant

Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry.

Sauté the Garlic

In a skillet, sauté minced garlic in a bit of olive oil until golden. Add your fresh tomato sauce and stir in oregano; let simmer for a few minutes.

Layer the Bake

In a baking dish, spread a layer of tomato sauce, followed by a layer of eggplant slices, ricotta cheese, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Bake the Dish

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Enjoy your deliciously baked dish!

Pro Tips

For an added punch of flavor, consider marinating the eggplant in olive oil and herbs before baking. This can enhance the taste even further.

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is excellent for meal prep and can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking. Simply assemble the layers during your prep time, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy it, bake it straight from the fridge; just add an extra 5 minutes to the original baking time to ensure it heats thoroughly.

If you plan to freeze the bake, I recommend doing so before the final baking step. Assemble the dish in a freezer-friendly container, tightly wrap it, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This method preserves the texture of the eggplant and ricotta without compromising flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Eggplant Tomato Ricotta Bake makes for a fantastic centerpiece, but it pairs nicely with a simple side salad or crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. The freshness of a light green salad or the warmth of bread can complement the richness of the bake beautifully, providing a satisfying contrast. If you're looking to add more veggies, consider adding sautéed spinach or roasted peppers between the layers for an extra nutrient boost.

For a twist on presentation, try serving the bake in individual ramekins. Not only does this make for a lovely presentation, but it also allows each guest to enjoy their personal serving. Top individual servings with a bit of extra mozzarella or fresh herbs just before serving for a delightful finishing touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute mozzarella with gouda or fontina for a different flavor.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn't contain any grains.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it when ready to serve.

→ What do I serve with baked eggplant?

It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.