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Lazy Eggplant Lasagna

A comforting and easy-to-make lasagna using layers of eggplant instead of pasta, filled with creamy ricotta, savory marinara, and gooey mozzarella.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 large eggplants Sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups 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)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle both sides with salt and let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
  2. In a small skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
  3. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sautéed garlic, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until blended.
Layering and Cooking
  1. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start with a layer of marinara sauce, followed by a layer of eggplant slices. Spread a portion of the ricotta mixture over the eggplant, then sprinkle with mozzarella. Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, finishing with marinara and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan on top.
  2. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving
  1. Allow the lasagna to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve warm!

Notes

You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake – just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.