Cheesy Pesto Stuffed Aubergine

Welcome to our irresistible cheesy pesto stuffed aubergine recipe—an ideal meal for those evenings when you're craving something comforting yet gourmet. Air frying these delectable aubergines adds an extra touch of crispness to the exterior while keeping the interior delightfully creamy and full of flavour.

Cheesy pesto stuffed aubergine

Ingredients

  • 2 large aubergines
  • 150g of ricotta cheese
  • 100g of grated mozzarella cheese
  • 50g of parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 100g of basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 clove of garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil for brushing
Ingredients for stuffed aubergine

Instructions

This recipe is designed with the air fryer in mind but can easily be adapted for a conventional oven. Let's dive into the step-by-step guide:

  1. Prepare the Aubergines: Start by slicing the aubergines in half lengthwise. Scoop out the flesh, leaving about a 1cm thick border. Chop the flesh finely and set aside.
  2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, mix the chopped aubergine flesh with ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, parmesan cheese, pesto, minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.
  3. Stuff the Aubergines: Spoon the filling back into the aubergine halves. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top for an extra cheesy finish.
  4. Air Fry the Aubergines: Preheat your air fryer to 190°C (374°F). Lightly brush the outside of the aubergine skins with olive oil and place them in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 15–20 minutes or until the tops are golden and bubbly.
  5. Serve: Once cooked, let the aubergines rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the flavours settle nicely. Garnish with a sprig of fresh basil if desired.
Air fried stuffed aubergine

Tips and Variations

  • Pesto: Homemade pesto brings a fresher and more vibrant flavour, but a good quality store-bought version works perfectly well.
  • Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Try adding feta for a briny kick or cheddar for an extra depth of flavour.
  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the filling for a hint of heat.

Conclusion

This cheesy pesto stuffed aubergine recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings a taste of comfort and sophistication to your dining table. Ideal for vegetarians and those looking to reduce meat consumption, this aubergine dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the crispy cheese topping and the soft, flavourful filling—your family and friends will be asking for seconds!