Eggplant And Ricotta Pasta Bake

Do you want to create a delicious and comforting meal that captures the flavors of Italy? Look no further than this Eggplant And Ricotta Pasta Bake recipe! Packed with savory eggplant, creamy ricotta, and flavorful herbs, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into rounds
– 1 lb pasta of your choice (penne or rigatoni work well)
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and slightly browned.
3. While the eggplant is roasting, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of cooked pasta, followed by a layer of roasted eggplant slices.
6. Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the eggplant and pasta, spreading it evenly. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, eggplant, and ricotta mixture.
7. Top the dish with the remaining tomato sauce and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
9. Once done, remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
10. Serve the Eggplant And Ricotta Pasta Bake hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy!

This Eggplant And Ricotta Pasta Bake is a wonderful dish that combines the rich flavors of eggplant and creamy ricotta cheese with the heartiness of pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy get-together, this recipe is sure to impress your loved ones. Try it out and let the comforting aromas of Italy fill your kitchen!