Elevate your dinner table with the irresistible charm of Eggplant Aubergine Gratin, a classic baked dish that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors. This comforting recipe features tender, golden-brown slices of eggplant layered with a robust homemade tomato sauce, fragrant with oregano and basil, and generously topped with a savory blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Finished with a delicate, crispy breadcrumb topping, this gratin is baked to perfection, offering a bubbly, golden crust that seals in the rich, cheesy layers beneath. Perfect as a hearty vegetarian main or side dish, this gratin pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for a satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and brimming with wholesome ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser that fits seamlessly into weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Slice the eggplants into 1 cm (1/3 inch) thick rounds. Sprinkle both sides with a pinch of salt and set them aside for 15 minutes to draw out moisture.
While the eggplants rest, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes to develop flavors, then remove from heat.
Pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels to remove any drawn-out moisture.
Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet. Sear the eggplant slices in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until they are lightly golden and tender.
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom. Arrange a single layer of eggplant slices on top.
Sprinkle a portion of the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses over the eggplant. Repeat the layers with more tomato sauce, eggplant, and cheeses until all ingredients have been used, finishing with a layer of mozzarella on top.
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the final layer of cheese for a crispy topping.
Bake the gratin in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Serving size | 1834.6 grams (1834.6g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 1753 |
Total Fat 108.70g | 139% |
Saturated Fat 38.30g | 191% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.30g | |
Cholesterol 168mg | 56% |
Sodium 5018mg | 218% |
Total Carbohydrate 136.60g | 50% |
Dietary Fiber 39.70g | 142% |
Total Sugars 57.90g | |
Protein 74.50g | 149% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 1871mg | 144% |
Iron 10mg | 54% |
Potassium 3461mg | 74% |
Source of Calories