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Close-up of a baked vegetable tian with layers of sliced zucchini, tomatoes, and eggplant in a ceramic dish

Hearty Tomato Eggplant Zucchini Bake

This comforting and flavorful Tomato Eggplant Zucchini Bake combines tender roasted vegetables with a rich tomato sauce and bubbling cheese, creating a perfect vegetarian main or a delicious side dish.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Vegetarian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium eggplant peeled if desired, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 2 medium zucchini cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved (or 2 medium regular tomatoes, diced)
  • 1 large red onion roughly chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce & Cheese
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese divided
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Equipment

  • Large baking dish (9x13 inch or similar)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Large Skillet or Dutch Oven
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Prepare the Vegetables
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed eggplant, zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped red onion. Add olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Toss well to ensure all vegetables are evenly coated.
Roast the Vegetables
  1. Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are slightly tender and lightly browned. This step concentrates their flavor and removes excess moisture.
Prepare the Baking Dish
  1. While vegetables are roasting, lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish (or similar size).
Assemble the Bake
  1. In a large bowl, combine the roasted vegetables with the crushed tomatoes and 1/4 cup of the chopped fresh basil. Stir gently to mix. Pour half of the vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
Layer and Top
  1. Spoon the remaining vegetable mixture over the Parmesan layer. Top evenly with the shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
Bake
  1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown, and the sauce is simmering.
Serve
  1. Remove from oven and let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra fresh basil, if desired. Serve hot as a main course with crusty bread or as a side dish.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can sauté the eggplant separately in a little olive oil until golden before combining with other vegetables.
Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.