Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds medium eggplant, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cans crushed tomatoes, 28 ounces each
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, torn into chunks
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn by hand
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cut the eggplant into 1-inch cubes, leaving the skin intact.
- Toss the eggplant cubes with 3 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread the eggplant in a single layer on two parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and golden brown on the edges.
- Heat the remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine.
- Bring the soup base to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Add the roasted eggplant and stir gently to incorporate.
- Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy.
- Add the torn mozzarella and stir gently until melted.
- Remove from heat and stir in 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese until melted.
- Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil, remaining parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
Roast the eggplant thoroughly for the deepest flavor and best texture. Use fresh mozzarella and freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-shredded cheese for a smooth, creamy finish. Add the cream and cheese off direct heat to prevent curdling or graininess.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
