Eggplant is one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen, known for its ability to absorb flavor and hold up in everything from dips to casseroles. Whether roasted, grilled, baked, or blended, it adds body and richness to all kinds of dishes. This collection brings together bold global flavors, comforting baked meals, and some fresh new takes on old classics. From meatless options to hearty mains, these recipes give eggplant a proper spotlight.

Grilled Eggplant Salad

Grilled Eggplant Salad. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Grilled eggplant slices are tossed with herbs, garlic, and a tangy vinaigrette. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the fresh, bright dressing. This salad is simple but packs a ton of flavor. Great served warm or cold.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Eggplant Salad

Eggplant And Tofu Recipe (Panda Express Copycat)

A bowl of rice topped with stir-fried eggplant, tofu, red bell peppers, and green onions. A fork is placed on the side.
Eggplant And Tofu Recipe (Panda Express Copycat). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Crispy tofu and sautéed eggplant get coated in a sticky, garlicky sauce. This homemade take delivers the same bold, sweet-savory flavor. Everything cooks in one pan. Serve with rice for a fast meal.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant And Tofu Recipe (Panda Express Copycat)

Eggplant Curry

Eggplant Curry. Photo credit: A Cedar Spoon.

Tender eggplant cubes simmer in a thick, spiced curry sauce. Coconut milk or tomatoes round out the flavors depending on the version. It’s rich, warming, and easy to customize. Perfect with rice or flatbread.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Curry

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant

Cheesy chicken stuffed eggplant on a baking sheet.
Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Roasted eggplant halves are filled with seasoned chicken, marinara, and melted cheese. The result is hearty and comforting with plenty of texture. Each bite has a mix of creamy, cheesy, and savory. A full meal in a single dish.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant

Grilled Caprese Eggplant Sandwich

Grilled Caprese Eggplant Sandwich. Photo credit: Swirls Of Flavor.

Grilled eggplant slices pair with tomato, mozzarella, and basil for a caprese-inspired sandwich. The bread is toasted and drizzled with balsamic. Everything holds together well and tastes fresh. A satisfying vegetarian option.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Caprese Eggplant Sandwich

Eggplant Feta Pizza

Eggplant Feta Pizza. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Thin eggplant slices top a pizza crust along with crumbled feta and herbs. The flavor is salty, tangy, and slightly smoky. The crust crisps up around the tender toppings. Great for a quick dinner night.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Feta Pizza

Eggplant Casserole

An eggplant casserole in a baking dish, accompanied by a wooden spoon.
Eggplant Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Sautéed eggplant mixes with tomato sauce, cheese, and breadcrumbs for a layered bake. The texture is soft and slightly chunky. It’s hearty without needing meat. Serve with bread or salad on the side.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Lentil Stuffed Eggplant

Lentil Stuffed Eggplant. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Eggplant halves get filled with a seasoned lentil mixture, then roasted until golden. The filling is hearty and slightly spiced. A drizzle of yogurt or tahini adds balance. A great plant-based main course.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Stuffed Eggplant

Eggplant Parmigiana

Eggplant Parmigiana. Photo credit: Like Mother Like Daughter.

Thin layers of eggplant stack up with tomato sauce and cheese in this Italian classic. Everything bakes until bubbling and golden. It slices clean and tastes even better the next day. A staple for eggplant lovers.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Parmigiana

Mutabal Recipe (The Creamiest Middle Eastern Eggplant Dip)

A bowl of baba ganoush—a classic among delicious eggplant recipes—garnished with parsley and olive oil, accompanied by lemon halves and flatbread on a wooden surface.
Mutabal Recipe (The Creamiest Middle Eastern Eggplant Dip). Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Roasted eggplant blends with tahini, garlic, and lemon for a smoky, creamy dip. The texture is smooth and rich. It pairs well with flatbread or fresh veggies. A great option for parties or spreads.
Get the Recipe: Mutabal Recipe (The Creamiest Middle Eastern Eggplant Dip)

Eggplant Napoleons with Whipped Ricotta

Stack of breaded eggplant slices layered with whipped feta and roasted tomatoes on a decorative plate, with a fork and knife on the side.
Eggplant Napoleons with Whipped Ricotta. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Fried or baked eggplant slices stack up with creamy ricotta and marinara between each layer. The whipped ricotta adds a light, airy texture. Every bite is cheesy and soft with a bit of structure. Fancy but simple to make.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Napoleons with Whipped Ricotta

Eggplant Lasagna

Eggplant Lasagna. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

Eggplant slices replace pasta in this low-carb lasagna option. Layers of sauce, cheese, and soft eggplant hold together beautifully. It bakes until bubbling and golden. A lighter alternative that still feels hearty.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Lasagna

Creamy Eggplant Pasta with Ricotta Pesto and Olives

Creamy Eggplant Pasta with Ricotta Pesto and Olives. Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen.

Eggplant blends into a rich, garlicky sauce for pasta tossed with ricotta pesto. The olives add briny contrast. The sauce clings to the noodles perfectly. A smooth and savory twist on pasta night.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Eggplant Pasta with Ricotta Pesto and Olives

Eggplant and Beef Meatballs Recipe

A plate of eggplant and beef meatballs with a savory sauce.
Eggplant and Beef Meatballs Recipe. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Ground beef and finely chopped eggplant mix into soft, juicy meatballs. The eggplant keeps them moist and tender. They brown well and hold their shape. Serve with marinara or over rice.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant and Beef Meatballs Recipe

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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