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Eggplant Mozzarella Sandwiches Recipe

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4.3 from 11 reviews

These Eggplant Mozzarella Sandwiches are a delicious vegetarian meal featuring tender sautéed eggplant in a flavorful marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese on perfectly toasted rolls. This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner in just 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Eggplant Mixture

  • 1 eggplant (8" length)
  • 4 Tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Buns and Topping

  • 4 rolls
  • 1 Tbsp butter
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 4 oz. mozzarella

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Cube the eggplant into ½-inch cubes and mince the garlic finely to prepare for sautéing.
  2. Sauté Eggplant: Heat 2 Tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the cubed eggplant and Italian seasoning, continuing to sauté for 5-7 minutes until the eggplant becomes soft and tender.
  3. Add Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the eggplant, stir well to combine, and heat through for 3-5 minutes. Taste and season with 1/2 tsp salt as needed.
  4. Preheat Broiler and Prepare Butter Mixture: Preheat your oven’s broiler with the rack positioned in the middle. Combine the remaining 2 Tbsp olive oil, butter, and garlic powder in a microwave-safe bowl, then microwave for 15-30 seconds until the butter melts. Stir to combine.
  5. Toast Rolls: Arrange the rolls cut side up on a baking sheet. Brush the butter and olive oil mixture generously over the cut sides. Place under the broiler for about 5 minutes, watching closely, until the rolls are lightly golden brown.
  6. Assemble and Melt Cheese: Remove the rolls from the oven and switch oven setting from broil to bake at 350ºF. Pile the eggplant mixture onto each toasted roll, then top with mozzarella cheese. Return the sandwiches to the oven and bake for about 5 minutes until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Watch the rolls closely under the broiler as they can burn quickly.
  • You can substitute the marinara sauce with your favorite pizza sauce or homemade tomato sauce.
  • For a vegan version, use a plant-based mozzarella alternative and vegan butter.
  • Ensure the eggplant is cooked until soft to avoid a bitter taste.