How to Make Vegetarian Eggplant Meatballs - A Step-by-Step Guide

Vegetarian Eggplant Meatballs are a delicious and satisfying alternative to traditional meatballs. They are packed with flavor and texture from the eggplant, breadcrumbs, and a blend of savory herbs and spices. This recipe is perfect for those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet, as well as for anyone looking for a meatless twist on a classic comfort food dish.

These meatballs are not only flavorful, but they are also incredibly easy to make. With just a few ...

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Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, or more as needed
  • 1 onion, minced
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced, or more to taste
  • 1 eggplant, peeled and cubed
  • 10 leaves fresh basil, chopped
  • ¾ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • salt and ground black pepper to taste
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup panko bread crumbs

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 45 mins
  • Additional Time: 15 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
  • Servings: 6
  • Yield: 18 balls

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; cook and stir onion and garlic until tender, 5 to 10 minutes. Add eggplant, basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to onion mixture; cook and stir, mashing occasionally with a wooden spoon, until eggplant is cooked through but still holds shape, about 10 minutes. Remove skillet from heat and cool mixture to room temperature.
  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat (such as Silpat®).
  • Mix Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs into eggplant mixture; shape into 15 to 18 "meatballs". Arrange "meatballs" on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake in the preheated oven, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 30 minutes.
  • Nutrition

    133 cal.

    • Total Fat: 9g
    • Saturated Fat: 2g
    • Cholesterol: 4mg
    • Sodium: 141mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 14g
    • Dietary Fiber: 3g
    • Total Sugars: 3g
    • Protein: 4g
    • Vitamin C: 4mg
    • Calcium: 73mg
    • Iron: 1mg
    • Potassium: 227mg