25 Best Eggplant Recipes to Make This Week

From fried eggplant parm to creamy hummus, these easy eggplant recipes are just as satisfying and delicious as any meaty meal.

And they’re way more versatile than you think!

Easy Eggplant Recipes

If you think eggplant recipes start and end with moussaka, get ready to have your mind blown.

Because between the eggplant meatballs, sandwiches, and tacos, it might just become your new favorite meat substitute.

In fact, this list covers every cuisine you can think of. So whether you’re in the mood for Italian and Japanese eggplant recipes, I have you covered.

1. Baked Eggplant

Of all the simple eggplant recipes out there, this is probably the most straightforward.

If you’ve ever made pork or chicken cutlets, you can make this tasty baked eggplant (aka aubergine).

Topped with garlic and Parmesan, then baked until golden browned and crunchy, it’s a yummy main or side dish.

2. Baba Ganoush

This Eastern Mediterranean healthy eggplant dip is a must-make for your next party.

It’s like hummus, only it’s a blend of eggplant (not chickpeas) with herbs, spices, and a dash of olive oil.

It only takes a few minutes to assemble, and it’s excellent with an array of fresh, crunchy veggies.

3. Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a hearty and vibrant vegetarian stew with plenty of fresh veggies.

You only need one pan, though the ingredients do need to be added in a specific order.

That way, the veggies don’t lose all their texture.

When it’s ready, the mixture is coated in a tangy tomato sauce, making it extra punchy.

4. Stuffed Eggplant

Forget boring breadcrumbs because this stuffed eggplant is loaded with a hearty mixture of chickpeas, couscous, tomatoes, and fresh herbs.

You’ll bake the aubergine until it’s tender, then let it cool slightly while you make the stuffing.

The recipe calls for couscous, but feel free to use quinoa for a boost of protein.

5. Grilled Aubergine Salad

When you grill eggplant, it takes on a unique, smoky flavor reminiscent of long, lazy summer days and backyard BBQs.

But instead of being heavy, like many BBQ meats, these grilled eggplant steaks are light and fresh.

Again, feel free to use quinoa if you like. But I think those pearls of couscous really make this something special.

6. Eggplant Parmesan

I hope you’re hungry because this is the best eggplant parm you’ll ever eat!

It takes a little longer to make than lasagna.

And that’s because you’ll bake the aubergine on its own and then again once the dish is assembled with the cheese, herbs, and marinara.

But one bite, and you’ll see it’s worth it!

7. Eggplant Tacos

Even eggplant skeptics can’t resist these golden brown, crunchy eggplant tacos!

You’ll make a pesto-like dressing with garlic, cilantro, mustard, lime juice, honey, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.

And the aubergine needs a simple breading to make it crispy.

They’re light, fresh, and ideal for meatless meals at home.

8. Fried Eggplant Parmesan Sandwiches

What happens when you take crispy breaded eggplant, douse it in marinara, layer it with melted cheese, and wrap it in a ciabatta bun?

You’ll blow your mind and your tastebuds.

Seriously, this fried eggplant parm sandwich is a thing of beauty. It’s the vegetarian Italian sub we can all get behind.

9. Roasted Eggplant Soup

Of all the recipes with eggplant, this might be the one that surprises you.

Since this purple vegetable can be quite bitter, you might expect a soup to be overwhelming.

But the blend of cumin, thyme, and cilantro lifts the vegetarian broth beautifully.

Add a little kick of cayenne to offset the creaminess of the aubergine, and it’s a big bowl of yum.

10. Eggplant Meatballs

Who knew meatballs could be so vegan adaptable?

Sure, there’s no actual meat in these delicious meatballs, but give them a go, and you might find you prefer it that way.

In fact, I have a feeling you won’t even miss the meat once you add the fresh herbs and tomato sauce.

11. Eggplant Lasagna

Lasagna is in my top 10 comfort foods (yes, I keep a list). But when I want comfort without the carbs, this is my go-to.

Simply swap out the noodles with thinly sliced, roasted aubergine for maximum flavor and minimum carbs.

Feel free to add cooked ground meat. But I promise it’s hearty enough on its own.

12. Miso-Glazed Eggplant

This fresh, zesty miso-glazed eggplant ticks all the boxes.

It’s sticky, sweetly spiced, and super tender. It’s also great as a side or a main course.

You’ll need sweet soy sauce for this, plus sambal oelek for spice. That’s what make this sticky – so don’t leave them out!

13. Zaalouk

Zaalouk is a Morrocan eggplant dish with juicy tomatoes, smoked paprika, and warm cumin.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve it hot or cold and enjoy it as a side dish, appetizer, or dip.

I like it as a warm, healthy eggplant dip with chips and veggies on the side.

14. Baked Aubergine Fries

This is one of the best eggplant recipes for kids and eggplant skeptics.

Because not only is it insanely crunchy, but it’s ideal for anyone craving fries on a health kick.

Eggplant fries are a guilt-free indulgence that’ll satisfy any salty craving. Serve them with fresh tzatziki, and you’re all set.

15. Pasta Alla Norma

A lighter take on the classic Italian favorite, this recipe goes heavy on the aubergine to cut the carbs.

You’ll roast or grill the eggplant until tender, then toss it with pasta, marinara sauce, and fresh basil to create a little taste of Italy right in your own kitchen.

16. Eggplant Burgers

Food should be fun as well as flavorful, and these ‘messy’ eggplant burgers deliver on both counts.

In this inventive recipe, aubergine blends with breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices to make a sturdy patty that’s fried and sandwiched in a classic burger bun.

Top with tangy dijon and horseradish sauce, and have some napkins handy as you dig in!

17. Caponata

Caponata is a sweet and sour relish from Sicily, where it’s usually served as an appetizer or side dish.

In this version, creamy aubergine meets tart olives and capers for a snappy side that tastes like summer.

18. Eggplant Pizza

Nope, I’m not talking eggplant on pizza, but rather, eggplant as pizza. 

It’s a quick low-carb recipe in which you’ll ditch the heavy crust for thick eggplant steaks.

Top them with melted cheese and spinach, or add your favorite pizza toppings.

It won’t taste exactly like pizza, but it’ll definitely curb those cravings.

19. Eggplant Bacon

Yep, this is bacon… but not as you know it.

It’s thin strips of eggplant brushed with soy sauce and maple syrup that’re baked low and slow until they’re chewy.

Are they a match to the real deal? Unfortunately, no. But they’re a terrific vegan alternative for sandwiches, pizza, and more. 

20. Moussaka

You knew we’d get here, eventually. You can’t have a list of the best eggplant recipes without including everyone’s favorite Greek casserole – moussaka.

Layers of aubergine, ground beef, and tomatoes topped with a creamy bechamel sauce? Oh yeah, this stuff is legit!

21. Mnazeleh

Popular in Israel, mnazeleh is a vegan chickpea stew bursting with the vibrant flavors of the Middle East.

A dense tomato-based stew with hints of cinnamon and a touch of chili, it’s ideal for family feasts or a quiet night in. 

It stores well too, so if you like to meal prep, make a big batch and enjoy it all week.

22. Italian Aubergine Pie

Got some sad-looking aubergine in the fridge? Whip them into this savory pie, and they’ll taste good as new.

In this easy-to-follow recipe, sweet sundried tomatoes, salty Parmesan, and creamy eggplant come together in a pie crust.

The result? A light but satisfying dish that’s ideal for lunch or dinner.

23. Eggplant Salad with Pomegranate Seeds & Harissa

Believe it or not, eggplant works beautifully with bright pomegranate seeds.

And this recipe is all the proof you need.

Serve this on sliced, toasted bread like crostini, and it’ll be gone in a flash.

24. Eggplant Hummus

Where Baba Ganoush only looks like hummus, this version actually tastes like it too.

The aubergine is charred first to give it an earthy, smoky taste. Then you’ll whip it with tahini, garlic, and lemon.

After that, it’s up to you. Eat it by the spoonful, smear it on bread, or serve it with bagel chips. Yum!

25. Chinese Eggplants with Chili Garlic Sauce

The next time you need a quick, vegan dinner, try this twist on classic takeout.

Served on a bed of fluffy rice, this chili and garlic-infused aubergine is a thing of beauty.

And all you need is a bit of oil, ginger, garlic, and chili.

Easy peasy!