Eggplant Ricotta Bites are crispy, golden rounds of eggplant topped with creamy ricotta, herbs, and a touch of marinara. They’re a perfect blend of crunchy and smooth, savory and fresh — a bite-sized appetizer that’s both comforting and elegant. Ideal for parties, holidays, or even a light dinner, these bites capture all the flavors of Italian comfort food in one delicious mouthful.
Ingredients
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1 large eggplant, sliced into ½-inch rounds
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 egg
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1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp olive oil (for frying or baking)
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Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Cooking Time
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Prep time: 20 minutes
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Cook time: 25 minutes
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Total time: 45 minutes
Serving
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Makes about 12 bites
Instructions
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Prepare the eggplant:
Slice the eggplant into ½-inch rounds and sprinkle both sides lightly with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with a paper towel. -
Set up the coating station:
Place flour in one bowl, beaten egg in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper in a third. -
Coat the eggplant:
Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them stick. -
Cook the eggplant:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the slices for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
(For a lighter version, bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.) -
Prepare the ricotta mixture:
In a small bowl, mix ricotta with Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt and pepper until creamy. -
Assemble the bites:
Place each cooked eggplant slice on a baking sheet. Spoon a small dollop of ricotta mixture on top, then add a little marinara sauce. -
Bake:
Return to the oven for 8–10 minutes at 375°F, just until the cheese is warm and the edges are slightly crisp. -
Garnish and serve:
Top with fresh basil and serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.
Nutrition (per serving, 2 bites)
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Calories: 180
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Protein: 7g
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Fat: 9g
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Carbohydrates: 17g
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Fiber: 3g
Tips
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For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
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Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a mild kick.
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These can be made ahead and reheated in the oven before serving.
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If you love a stronger flavor, mix a bit of lemon zest or roasted garlic into the ricotta.
Eggplant Ricotta Bites are creamy, crisp, and full of Italian charm — the perfect small bite to impress guests or enjoy as a comforting, easy-to-make dish any night of the week.
