Looking for an elegant eggplant appetizer that's easy to make but looks like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen? These eggplant stacks with mozzarella, pesto, and tomato sauce are it! Tender grilled eggplant, creamy mozzarella, and garlicky tomato sauce come together in layers of Mediterranean flavor.
I first tasted a version of this dish years ago in Klaipėda, Lithuania (where I also got to know this amazing, bright pink cold beet soup, Šaltibarščiai), served as a warm appetizer before dinner. It instantly became one of those recipes that stays with you - simple ingredients, perfectly balanced flavors, and a presentation that never fails to impress. Think of it as a lighter, stacked version of melanzane alla parmigiana, but with a touch of pesto and less fuss.
These eggplant stacks work beautifully as a vegetarian main course (just add some crusty bread and a green salad) or as an impressive warm appetizer for guests.
Why You'll Love These Eggplant Stacks
- A fresh take on a classic - Inspired by Italian eggplant parmigiana but served as mini towers for a modern twist.
- Restaurant-worthy but easy - Made with simple ingredients found in any grocery store.
- Make-ahead friendly - Assemble the stacks in advance and bake just before serving.
- Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free - A hearty and healthy option everyone can enjoy
About the Ingredients
Here's why each ingredient matters:
Eggplant: Look for medium-sized eggplants with smooth, glossy skin. Salting the slices before grilling draws out excess moisture, keeping them tender, not soggy.
Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, giving that irresistible cheese pull. For a firmer texture, use low-moisture mozzarella (so avoid burrata).
Tomato Sauce: A quick sauce made from canned diced tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs provides brightness and depth without overwhelming the other flavors.
Pesto: A small dollop of pesto between layers adds richness and that unmistakable basil-garlic aroma.
Olive Oil & Herbs: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning tie everything together with warmth and flavor.
How to Make Eggplant Stacks
First, slice and salt the eggplant to remove excess moisture. This step helps prevent sogginess. After resting, pat them dry, brush with olive oil, and grill until tender and lightly charred.
Meanwhile, make a quick tomato sauce with garlic, herbs, and canned tomatoes. Once thickened, pour it into a baking dish.
Layer grilled eggplant slices with mozzarella and pesto to create little "towers," then nestle them into the sauce. Bake until the cheese melts and the stacks are bubbling and golden. Garnish with fresh basil, and serve them warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Eggplant holds a lot of water. Salting and drying the slices before cooking helps prevent sogginess. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan when grilling.
Yes! Assemble them, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake right before serving.
Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully but releases more liquid. For a firmer stack, use low-moisture mozzarella instead. Burrata is not a good choice for this recipe.
Eggplant Stacks with Mozzarella & Tomato Sauce
Equipment
- knife
- grill pan
- casserole
Ingredients
- 1 eggplant
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 9 oz mozzarella (fresh)
- 2 tablespoon basil pesto
For the tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- fresh basil
Instructions
- Prep the eggplant: Slice the eggplant into ¼-inch-thick rounds. Sprinkle both sides lightly with salt and let rest for 15-30 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Grill the eggplant: Brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and grill the slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and tender. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and a little black pepper.
- Make the tomato sauce: In a saucepan, heat a drizzle of olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened. Pour into a lightly greased baking dish.
- Assemble the stacks: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Layer grilled eggplant slices with mozzarella and a small dab of pesto - think eggplant, pesto, mozzarella, repeat. Build 2-3 layers high, ending with mozzarella on top. Place the stacks in the tomato sauce.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil.
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