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Eggplant Casserole with Ground Beef

Hearty Eggplant Casserole with Ground Beef Everyone Loves

This Eggplant Casserole with Ground Beef is a comforting dish that combines tender eggplant, savory ground beef, and a rich cheese topping for a delightful family meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • 2 medium Eggplants Salting beforehand reduces bitterness and moisture.
  • 1 medium Onion Can be replaced with shallots for a mellower taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
  • 2 cups Tomato Sauce Consider canned crushed tomatoes for a fresher taste.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Substitute with Parmesan for a stronger flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Feel free to craft your own mix.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste based on personal preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to taste based on personal preference.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for sautéing.

Equipment

  • oven
  • Skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Colander
  • paper towels

Method
 

Step-by-step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your baking dish with a light coat of olive oil.
  2. Slice the eggplants into ½-inch thick rounds, sprinkle with salt, and place them in a colander for about 20 minutes. Rinse and pat dry.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, then the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  4. Increase the heat, add the ground beef, and cook until browned, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  5. Stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning, simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
  6. In the baking dish, layer eggplant, half of the meat sauce, repeating layers and finishing with meat sauce on top.
  7. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top to cover the final meat layer.
  8. Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
  10. Cut into squares and serve. Pair with a fresh salad or crusty bread.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 850mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This casserole is versatile; feel free to substitute ingredients to suit your family's tastes.

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