This hearty Italian-inspired bake layers tender eggplant slices with spicy Italian sausage, robust marinara sauce, and a generous amount of melted mozzarella and Romano cheese. The dish offers a comforting, savory flavor profile with soft textures and aromatic herbs like basil and oregano. It is an excellent choice for family dinners or potlucks, providing a satisfying main course that feels both homemade and elegant. The combination of roasted vegetables and savory meat creates a deeply flavorful experience that pairs well with crusty bread for dipping up the extra sauce. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Frank’S Eggplant Siciliano
Description
This hearty Italian-inspired bake layers tender eggplant slices with spicy Italian sausage, robust marinara sauce, and a generous amount of melted mozzarella and Romano cheese. The dish offers a comforting, savory flavor profile with soft textures and aromatic herbs like basil and oregano. It is an excellent choice for family dinners or potlucks, providing a satisfying main course that feels both homemade and elegant. The combination of roasted vegetables and savory meat creates a deeply flavorful experience that pairs well with crusty bread for dipping up the extra sauce. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
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Coat the sides and bottom of a 10x14 inch glass baking pan with extra virgin olive oil.
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Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the pan and spread it out evenly to coat the bottom.
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Place a layer of sliced eggplant in the pan, pressing down gently to work it into the sauce.
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Spread approximately half a cup of marinara sauce over the eggplant layer.
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Sprinkle a layer of pan-saut&# 195;©ed Italian sausage evenly over the sauce.
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Add a layer of mozzarella cheese, followed by grated Romano cheese.
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Sprinkle garlic powder, fresh basil leaves, and oregano evenly over the cheese.
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Ladle another cup of marinara sauce over the herbs and spread it around.
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Repeat the layering process (eggplant, sauce, sausage, cheeses, herbs) until all ingredients are used, ensuring the top layer is a heavy blanket of mozzarella cheese.
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Season the top with black pepper to taste.
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Cover the dish tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil.
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Bake in the upper third of the oven for about 60 minutes, or until the eggplant is soft and tender.
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Remove from oven and let cool for 20 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1205.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 96.5g149%
- Saturated Fat 49.6g248%
- Cholesterol 237.2mg80%
- Sodium 2729.0mg114%
- Total Carbohydrate 24.4g9%
- Dietary Fiber 4.1g17%
- Sugars 11.7g
- Protein 63.4g127%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Ensure the eggplant slices are uniform in thickness for even cooking.
If the eggplant slices are thick, you may need to increase the baking time slightly to ensure they are fully tender.
The dish should rest for 20 minutes after baking to allow the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve cleanly.
For a crispier top, remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
