Eggplant steps into the spotlight across cuisines with endless versatility, from hearty casseroles and cozy curries to smoky dips and inventive pizzas. It adapts as well to bold, meaty pairings as it does to vegan crowds, offering creamy textures, rich flavors, or even a touch of charred depth. This lineup explores eggplant’s culinary range, highlighting everything from comfort-food classics to globally inspired twists that make the humble nightshade exciting again.

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.

Grated eggplant blends with ground beef for tender meatballs that stay moist and flavorful. The eggplant adds richness without overpowering the dish. Bake or pan-fry, then toss in sauce or serve over grains. A lighter, unexpected twist on the usual.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant and Beef Meatballs Recipe

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.

This quick stir-fry mimics the takeout classic with crispy tofu, soft eggplant, and bell peppers in a sticky garlic sauce. The flavor is bold and slightly sweet, with a subtle kick. Serve over rice for a weeknight dinner that comes together fast.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant And Tofu Recipe (Panda Express Copycat)

Baked Eggplant Parmesan

Baked Eggplant Parmesan. Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen.

Breaded eggplant rounds bake until crisp, then layer with marinara and cheese before baking again until bubbly. It’s cozy, classic, and hard to stop eating. Skip the fry oil, keep the flavor.
Get the Recipe: Baked Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Lasagna

Eggplant Lasagna. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

Eggplant slices replace noodles in this veggie-forward version of lasagna. Layered with sauce, cheese, and herbs, it’s rich without being too heavy. Great for prepping ahead and reheating.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Lasagna

Eggplant Curry

Eggplant Curry. Photo credit: A Cedar Spoon.

Chunks of eggplant simmer in a spiced tomato-coconut sauce until silky and full of flavor. Serve with rice, naan, or lentils. Warm, comforting, and easy to adapt.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Curry

Eggplant Parmigiana

Eggplant Parmigiana. Photo credit: Like Mother Like Daughter.

This Italian-style version bakes eggplant with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan for a rich, cheesy dish that’s all about comfort. The sauce thickens while the top browns beautifully. Great with bread or salad.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Parmigiana

Easy Eggplant Salad

Easy Eggplant Salad. Photo credit: Amira’s Pantry.

Roasted eggplant cubes mix with herbs, lemon, and olive oil for a bright, smoky salad. Serve warm or chilled. Pairs well with grilled meats or as part of a mezze spread.
Get the Recipe: Easy Eggplant Salad

Grilled Caprese Eggplant Sandwich

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

Grilled eggplant rounds stack with mozzarella, tomatoes, and pesto in a warm sandwich that feels like summer. The eggplant adds depth while staying tender. Serve hot off the grill or pressed.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Caprese Eggplant Sandwich

Zucchini Tomato Eggplant Bake

Zucchini Tomato Eggplant Bake. Photo credit: Everyday Eileen.

Thin slices of vegetables layer with herbs and olive oil in a baked dish that’s light but satisfying. The top crisps while the inside softens. Good warm or room temp.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Tomato Eggplant Bake

Mutabal Recipe (The Creamiest Middle Eastern Eggplant Dip)

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. Serve with pita or raw vegetables. A simple, deeply flavored spread.
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.

Stacked rounds of eggplant alternate with whipped ricotta and tomato for a fresh, savory tower. The textures are creamy, soft, and light. Great as a starter or light main.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Napoleons with Whipped Ricotta

Grilled Eggplant Salad

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

Charred eggplant combines with fresh greens, herbs, and a punchy vinaigrette. Smoky and bright at the same time. Serve warm or chilled.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Eggplant Salad

Eggplant Casserole

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

This baked dish combines roasted eggplant with cheese, tomato sauce, and breadcrumbs. It’s hearty without being heavy. A good one-pan dinner.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Baked Stuffed Eggplant Boats

A baked stuffed eggplant half filled with a vegetable mixture, topped with melted cheese and chopped herbs, served on a plate with a fork—perfect for dinner or as a standout among your favorite eggplant dishes.
Baked Stuffed Eggplant Boats. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Halved eggplants roast and get filled with seasoned vegetables, grains, or meat. The edges brown while the center stays soft. Serve with a drizzle of yogurt or tahini sauce.
Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Eggplant Boats

Lentil Stuffed Eggplant

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

Earthy lentils fill roasted eggplants in a dish that’s protein-rich and plant-based. Add herbs, garlic, or tomato sauce for extra depth. Serve with salad or flatbread.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Stuffed Eggplant

Eggplant Feta Pizza

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

Roasted eggplant and crumbled feta top a crisp crust for a pizza that’s smoky, salty, and full of contrast. Add olives or herbs to finish. Great for slicing and sharing.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Feta Pizza

Tomato Basil Eggplant Noodles

Tomato Basil Eggplant Noodles. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Thin ribbons of eggplant work like noodles in this light, tomato-basil–forward dish. It’s simple, fresh, and comes together quickly. A good way to use up late summer produce.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Basil Eggplant Noodles

Curry Roasted Eggplant Burgers

Curry Roasted Eggplant Burgers. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Roasted eggplant and spices form the base of these burgers, which are crisp outside and tender inside. Serve with chutney, slaw, or pickles. A bold, meatless option that holds up.
Get the Recipe: Curry Roasted Eggplant Burgers

Italian Eggplant Parmigiana

Italian Eggplant Parmigiana. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

This version sticks to Italian roots with layers of eggplant, tomato sauce, and cheese baked to bubbling perfection. Serve with crusty bread or pasta. A crowd-pleaser every time.
Get the Recipe: Italian Eggplant Parmigiana

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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