Baked Hasselback Eggplant with Tomato Basil Sauce

Name: Baked Hasselback Eggplant with Tomato Basil Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 4 eggplants; 4-5 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp thyme; 1 tsp oregano; 1 tsp paprika; Pinch of salt & chili flakes; 2 mozzarella balls (sliced); grated parmesan (as much as you like); Breadcrumbs (as needed); Fresh basil leaves; 400 g chopped tomatoes; 1 tsp tomato paste; 1 garlic clove (minced); 1/2 onion (finely chopped); Salt & pepper, to taste

When it comes to elegant vegetarian dishes that are both easy and impressive, few recipes deliver like this Baked Hasselback Eggplant with Tomato Basil Sauce. Thinly sliced eggplants are brushed with herbed olive oil, roasted until perfectly tender, and layered with melted mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh basil. All of it sits atop a rich tomato basil sauce that ties everything together into one comforting, Mediterranean-inspired plate.

This dish looks like something from a restaurant but comes together with minimal effort. Whether you are cooking for guests or craving a cozy, homemade dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

The Inspiration Behind This Recipe

Hasselback-style slicing originated in Sweden, where potatoes were cut into thin slits to achieve a crispy texture. Bringing that same technique to eggplant transforms this humble vegetable into a showstopper. Each slice absorbs olive oil and herbs, resulting in evenly cooked layers that hold creamy mozzarella and aromatic basil beautifully.

This version combines classic Italian flavors tomato, basil, and cheese for a dish that’s both rustic and refined.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for guests
A healthier, lighter alternative to eggplant Parmesan
Hasselback slicing ensures every bite is flavorful and tender
Packed with Mediterranean flavors and wholesome ingredients
Versatile as a main course or hearty side dish

Ingredient Spotlight

Eggplant: The star of the dish. Choose firm, glossy eggplants with no bruises for best results.
Olive oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth.
Cheese: Mozzarella provides creaminess, while Parmesan adds savory umami.
Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes make a quick, reliable base for the sauce.
Fresh basil: Brings freshness and balance to the rich, cheesy flavors.

How To Make Baked Hasselback Eggplant

Prepare the Eggplant – Slice the eggplants thinly without cutting all the way through. Mix olive oil with thyme, oregano, and paprika. Brush the mixture into each slit. — **Prepare the Eggplant** – Slice the eggplants thinly without cutting all the way through.

Mix olive oil with thyme, oregano, and paprika. Brush the mixture into each slit. — **Mix olive oil** with thyme, oregano, and paprika. Brush the mixture into each slit.

Bake the Eggplant – Roast until the eggplants are soft and golden. — **Bake the Eggplant** – Roast until the eggplants are soft and golden.

Add Cheese and Basil – Once baked, tuck slices of mozzarella and sprinkles of Parmesan between the slits. Add fresh basil. — **Add Cheese and Basil** – Once baked, tuck slices of mozzarella and sprinkles of Parmesan between the slits. Add fresh basil.

Serve – Spoon tomato basil sauce onto each plate and top with the baked eggplant. — **Serve** – Spoon tomato basil sauce onto each plate and top with the baked eggplant.

The result is a dish with a satisfying contrast of textures — tender eggplant, melted cheese, and rich sauce.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Hasselback Eggplant

This dish can be the centerpiece of a simple Mediterranean meal. Serve it with:

A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
Garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the sauce
A side of roasted potatoes or quinoa for extra heartiness
A light red wine such as Chianti or Pinot Noir

Pro Tips and Variations of Baked Hasselback Eggplant

For extra flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Add a sprinkle of red chili flakes or chili oil if you like spice.
Replace mozzarella with smoked provolone for a bolder taste.
To make it lighter, use part-skim mozzarella or reduce the cheese slightly.
Make the tomato sauce ahead of time to save prep time on busy evenings.

Frequently Asked Questions about Baked Hasselback Eggplant

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Bake the eggplants ahead of time and reheat before serving. Keep the tomato sauce stored separately until ready to serve.

What cheese alternatives work best?

Try provolone, Gruyère, or a vegan mozzarella alternative for a dairy-free option.

How can I keep the eggplant from becoming soggy?

Lightly salt the eggplant slices and let them rest for 15 minutes before baking to draw out excess moisture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Simply skip or replace the breadcrumbs with a gluten-free version.

What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with roasted potatoes, herbed rice, or a bright arugula salad.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until warmed through to maintain the texture. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the eggplant soft. The tomato sauce can also be frozen for future use.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Hasselback Eggplant with Tomato Basil Sauce is the perfect example of simple ingredients creating extraordinary flavor. It is comforting, wholesome, and deeply satisfying, showcasing the best of Mediterranean cooking. Whether served as a vegetarian main or a flavorful side, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

For more wholesome vegetarian and Mediterranean-inspired recipes, visit Aylin Cooks, where you’ll find simple, flavorful dishes made for real life.