Eggplant Meatballs Recipe

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Steps

1. Step 1

   Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Wash and dry your eggplant(s), then use a knife to prick little holes in your eggplant. Transfer to a large rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until very soft.

2. Step 2

   Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before gently peeling away the skin from the flesh. Discard the skin and transfer the flesh to a large mixing bowl, using a large fork to break it apart into small bits and pieces.

3. Step 3

   Meanwhile, prepare the breadcrumbs (if making your own). Transfer approximately 3 cups of crusty day-old bread to a large food processor (fresh and fluffy bread will not work). Process until all of the bread has been chopped into tiny uniform little bits and pieces. Measure out 2 cups and transfer to a large mixing bowl.

4. Step 4

   In the same bowl as your breadcrumbs, add the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, fresh parsley, fresh basil, and milk. Mix thoroughly to combine. Then add the whisked eggs, cooked eggplant, and parmesan cheese. Use your hands to mix everything together until fully combined.

5. Step 5

   Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Form the eggplant mixture into approximately 24 balls, rolling tightly between the palms of your hands, and transfer to the prepared baking sheet. Bake until firm and golden, approximately 20-25 minutes.

6. Step 6

   Remove from the oven and enjoy as is, with pasta and pasta sauce, or baked in simmering marinara sauce and melted cheese (instructions below).

7. Step 7

   Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

8. Step 8

   Add approximately 1 cup of prepared marinara sauce to a large oven-safe skillet followed by a single later of pre-cooked eggplant meatballs (depending on the size of your meatballs, all the meatballs may not fit in the same skillet). Spoon the remaining tomato sauce on and around your meatballs, top with freshly shredded mozzarella cheese, and freshly torn basil leaves.

9. Step 9

   Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-25 minutes, or until pasta sauce is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted.

10. Step 10

    Serve immediately with cooked pasta noodles or fresh, warm, buttery bread.

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