This Jamie Oliver-inspired aubergine parmigiana is a comforting Italian-style baked dish made with layers of roasted aubergines, rich tomato sauce, parmesan, mozzarella, and fresh basil. It delivers deep flavor with simple ingredients and creates a hearty vegetarian meal perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions.
Total Time:1hr 20minutes
Yield:6 servings
Ingredients
3 large aubergines, sliced
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cans chopped tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Small handful fresh basil leaves
200g mozzarella cheese, sliced
80g parmesan cheese, grated
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional chili flakes for heat
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Slice the aubergines and lightly sprinkle them with salt. Let them rest for 20 minutes, then pat dry.
Brush aubergine slices with olive oil and roast until soft and lightly golden.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a pan and cook onions until softened.
Add garlic and cook briefly before adding chopped tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce into a baking dish.
Add layers of roasted aubergines, sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
Finish with parmesan on top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes until bubbling and golden.
Let the parmigiana rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Salting the aubergines helps remove bitterness and excess moisture.
Roasting instead of frying creates a lighter texture.
Fresh basil adds authentic Italian flavor.
The dish tastes even better the next day after reheating.
Serve with garlic bread or fresh salad for a complete meal.
