Italian Turkey and Tomato Basil Eggplant Roll Pasta Bake.

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Boil the pasta until al dente, drain and add to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Add the pesto + 1 tablespoons olive oil and toss well to combine and then evenly coat the pasta.

Step 2

Meanwhile, season the eggplant with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Working in batches, cook the eggplant until light golden, 2 minutes on each side. Transfer the eggplant to a paper-towel-lined plate.

Step 3

Heat the same skillet over medium heat and add the remaining olive oil. Add the ground turkey or chicken and the garlic and begin breaking up the meat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until well browned, about 5 minutes. Add the cherry tomatoes and tomato paste, give everything a good stir and cook 3-5 minutes.

Step 4

Slowly pour in the red wine and milk. Season with salt + pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer, simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened. Remove from the heat and stir in the fresh herbs, crushed red peppers flakes + parmesan. Allow to cool slightly.

Step 5

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Step 6

Spoon about 1/3 of the turkey mixture over the pasta. Grab the eggplant slices and place a little of the turkey mixture in the center, roll up the eggplant and nestle it into the pasta and stand up right. Repeat with the remaining eggplant slices. Depending on how large your eggplants are, you may not need all of the slices.

Step 7

Dollop the ricotta cheese, over the eggplant and then add the mozzarella.

Step 8

Baked for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and gooey. Garnish with fresh herbs. Enjoy!