Pizzaiola-style eggplant rolls recipe baked to golden perfection with basil garnish

Pizzaiola-Style Eggplant Rolls – Easy, Cheesy & Delicious!

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🍆 Pizzaiola-Style Eggplant Rolls: A Simple Yet Delicious Italian Delight

Pizzaiola-style eggplant rolls are the perfect Italian comfort food — crispy outside, melty inside, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor.

There’s something magical about Italian cuisine — its ability to transform the simplest ingredients into irresistible comfort food. These Pizzaiola-Style Eggplant Rolls are a perfect example of that magic: tender slices of eggplant filled with gooey mozzarella, fragrant basil, and rich tomato sauce, all rolled up and baked to perfection.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, craving a vegetarian dish, or simply want to try something new, this recipe brings the warmth of Italy straight to your table — with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

🥘 Ingredients for pizzaiola-style eggplant rolls

To make these mouthwatering Pizzaiola-Style Eggplant Rolls, you’ll need:

  • 1 large eggplant

  • Olive oil for brushing

  • Breadcrumbs (for coating)

  • Oil for frying

  • 80 g (¼ cup) tomato sauce

  • 160 g mozzarella cheese, cubed

  • Fresh basil leaves

  • Salt and pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplant

Dipping eggplant slice in breadcrumbs for Pizzaiola-style eggplant rolls
Each eggplant slice is brushed with oil and coated in breadcrumbs before frying to achieve a golden, crispy texture.

Wash the eggplant thoroughly and cut off both ends. Slice it lengthwise into thin, even slices — about ½ cm thick.
Lightly brush each slice with olive oil on both sides, then coat with breadcrumbs.

2. Fry Until Golden

Heat a pan with a small amount of oil. Fry the eggplant slices until they become golden brown and slightly crisp on both sides.
Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

3. Fill and Roll

Spread a small spoonful of tomato sauce over each slice. Add a few mozzarella cubes and a fresh basil leaf.
Gently roll the slices and secure each one with a toothpick.

4. Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Arrange the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the mozzarella melts and the rolls are lightly golden.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Preparing pizzaiola-style eggplant rolls with mozzarella and tomato sauce
Thin slices of eggplant filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce before baking

Place the baked rolls on a serving platter, drizzle with extra tomato sauce, and garnish with fresh basil.
Serve warm — you’ll fall in love with the creamy, cheesy filling and crispy edges!

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💡 Tips & Variations

  • Add extra flavor: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a richer taste.

  • Make it lighter: Instead of frying, you can grill or air-fry the eggplant slices.

  • Switch up the cheese: Try ricotta or provolone for a different texture.

  • Add veggies: Mix in sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers for a colorful filling.

  • Make it ahead: You can prepare the rolls in advance and bake them just before serving.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless: Simple steps with ingredients you already have at home.

  • Healthy & light: A perfect vegetarian main or side dish.

  • Versatile: Works great as an appetizer, dinner, or party snack.

  • Authentic: Brings real Italian flavors with minimal preparation.

This is one of those recipes that feels like a hug — warm, cheesy, and utterly satisfying.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Pair your eggplant rolls with:

  • A bowl of spaghetti aglio e olio (garlic and oil pasta)

  • A crisp green salad

  • Freshly baked garlic bread

  • A glass of Italian red wine

🔁 Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Reheat: Warm in the oven for 10 minutes at 180°C (350°F).

  • Freeze: Freeze before baking, and bake directly from frozen for about 25 minutes.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use zucchini instead of eggplant?
Absolutely! Zucchini slices work beautifully and create a lighter version of the dish.

2. What kind of mozzarella should I use?
Use low-moisture mozzarella for the best texture — it melts perfectly without making the rolls soggy.

3. Can I skip frying the eggplant?
Yes. You can brush the slices with olive oil and bake them for 10 minutes on each side instead.

4. How can I make it vegan?
Use vegan cheese and plant-based breadcrumbs. The result will still be delicious!

5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely. The cheesy filling and mild tomato flavor make it a family favorite.

For more authentic Italian comfort recipes, visit
👉 Giallo Zafferano’s Eggplant Recipes Collection