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Grilled Eggplant Parmesan

A delicious and comforting twist on classic Eggplant Parmesan made with grilled eggplant, creamy cheeses, and zesty marinara sauce.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian, Vegetarian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Eggplant Preparation

  • 2 medium eggplants Trimmed and sliced lengthwise
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt For seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper For seasoning
  • 1 can nonstick cooking spray For grilling

Cheese Filling

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese Provides creaminess
  • 1 large egg To bind the cheese mixture
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For rich flavor
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese To melt beautifully on top

Assembly Ingredients

  • 2 cups marinara sauce For layering
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil Chopped, for layering and garnishing

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Prepare the eggplant by trimming the tops and bottoms and slicing them lengthwise into 1/4 inch thick pieces.
  • Arrange the eggplant slices on a rimmed baking sheet, spray with nonstick cooking spray, and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
  • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.

Cooking

  • Place the seasoned eggplant on the grill in an even layer and cook, flipping occasionally, until softened with nice grill marks, about 10 minutes.
  • Remove the grilled eggplant from the grill and transfer back to the rimmed baking sheet.
  • Set the grill for indirect cooking, heating it to a temperature between 425°F to 450°F.
  • In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, egg, and grated Parmesan cheese thoroughly.
  • In a 10-inch cast iron skillet, spread a heaping 1/2 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer the grilled eggplant over the sauce with 5-6 slices.
  • Top with a third of the basil, mozzarella, and ricotta mixture. Repeat the layers twice more, starting with the sauce and ending with the cheese, ensuring even distribution.
  • Cover the last layer completely with the remaining marinara sauce.
  • Tightly cover the skillet with foil and transfer it to the grill's indirect side, closing the lid.
  • Grill for 40 minutes, then remove the foil and close the lid, cooking for an additional 10 minutes until the sauce has tightened.
  • Let sit for 10 minutes, then top with remaining basil before cutting into wedges.

Notes

For a crispy topping, consider broiling the skillet for a few minutes after grilling.
Keyword Comfort Food, Eggplant Parmesan, Grilled Eggplant, Healthy Dinner, Vegetarian Recipe