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Sicilian Eggplant and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Casserole

Sicilian Eggplant and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Casserole
60min Total Time
6 people Servings
Medium Difficulty
Moderate Cost
450 kcal Calories

Indulge in the vibrant flavours of Sicily with this delicious Aubergine and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Bake that’s sure to impress your family and friends!


Ingredients

6
  • 300g penne pasta
  • 1 medium aubergine, diced
  • 150g sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 400g can of crushed tomatoes
  • 150g mozzarella cheese, grated
  • 50g parmesan cheese, grated
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).

2

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

3

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.

4

Add minced garlic and diced aubergine, cooking until the aubergine is tender, approximately 10 minutes.

5

Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes.

6

Combine the cooked pasta with the vegetable mixture, mixing well.

7

Transfer half of the pasta mix to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and parmesan over it.

8

Add the remaining pasta mix and top with the rest of the mozzarella and parmesan.

9

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

10

Remove from oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Kitchen Tools

  • Large pot for pasta
  • Skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Chef's Tips

For a smoky flavour, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce.
Make sure the aubergine is well cooked to avoid bitterness.
Feel free to add cooked chicken or turkey for a protein boost.

Troubleshooting

If the dish is dry, add a splash of vegetable stock before baking.
In case the top is getting too dark, cover with foil during the last baking stages.

Recipe Variations

Substitute aubergine with zucchini or mushrooms.
Add spinach for extra greens.
Incorporate different cheeses, like ricotta or feta.

Healthy Alternatives

Swap pasta for whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
Use low-fat cheese to reduce overall calories and fat content.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Pair with garlic bread for a delightful experience.

Nutrition Facts

450
Calories
18g
Protein
58g
Carbs
18g
Fat
5g
Fiber
6g
Sugar
680mg
Sodium
35mg
Cholesterol

Dietary Info

Vegetarian

Garnish Ideas

Sprinkle with additional fresh basil or parsley.
Drizzle with a bit of balsamic reduction.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Leftover Ideas

Turn cold leftovers into a pasta salad by adding fresh vegetables and dressing.
Use in omelettes for a hearty breakfast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not salting the aubergine before cooking, which could result in bitterness.
Overcooking the pasta before adding it to the bake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble everything a day ahead and bake it just before serving.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

You can replace cheese with vegan cheese alternatives and ensure the pasta is egg-free.

What type of pasta works best for baking?

Penne or rigatoni are ideal since they hold the sauce well.

Can I freeze this pasta bake?

Absolutely! Just ensure it's completely cooled before freezing. It can be stored for up to 2 months.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced chilli peppers to the sauce for an extra kick.

Reviews

Emma
Mar 13, 2026
This pasta bake is a true crowd-pleaser! Loved every bite.
Oliver
Mar 9, 2026
Great flavor, and easy to make. Will definitely make again!
Charlotte
Mar 24, 2026
Tasted good, but I expected it to be creamier.
James
Mar 14, 2026
Delicious and filling! Perfect comfort food.
Amelia
Mar 21, 2026
Very tasty, but I added a bit more cheese for richness.
Liam
Mar 23, 2026
Easy to prepare and packed with flavour. Will try variations next time!
Sophia
Mar 29, 2026
Absolutely loved this! Perfect balance of flavours.
Noah
Apr 1, 2026
I was pleasantly surprised. It turned out quite well!
Isabella
Apr 6, 2026
Will recommend this to my friends! A guest favourite.
Mason
Mar 12, 2026
It was nice, but a bit too saucy for my taste.
Ava
Apr 4, 2026
Great recipe! I love the sun-dried tomatoes.
Lucas
Mar 16, 2026
A wonderful dish! I'd happily make it again.
Mia
Mar 15, 2026
So hearty and satisfying. Loved the aubergine.
Elijah
Apr 1, 2026
Super tasty! Made it for dinner guests and they loved it.
Harper
Apr 1, 2026
Very nice dish, I would add more herbs next time.
Jackson
Mar 20, 2026
One of my new favourite recipes! So good.
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