Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsFlora Jean'sEggplant Meatballs Recipe

Eggplant Meatballs Recipe

Inspired by Flora Jean's
Time1h 15m
Serves4

marinara | mozzarella | basil

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Ingredients

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Eggplant Meatballs

Toppings

Method

Eggplant Meatballs

  1. 1

    Prepare Eggplant

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the eggplant in half lengthwise and score the flesh with a fork. Drizzle olive oil on the cut side and place it cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-35 minutes until soft.

  2. 2

    Make the Mixture

    Once the eggplant is cool enough to handle, scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl. Add bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix until combined.

  3. 3

    Shape the Meatballs

    Form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball, and place them on a greased baking sheet.

  4. 4

    Bake the Meatballs

    Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden and firm.

Marinara Sauce

  1. 5

    Cook the Sauce

    In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add canned crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  2. 6

    Finish the Sauce

    Stir in chopped fresh basil and remove the sauce from heat. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Assembly

  1. 7

    Combine and Serve

    In a serving dish, ladle marinara sauce at the bottom. Place the baked eggplant meatballs on top of the sauce. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the meatballs and return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

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