Baked Eggplant with Meat Filling and Cheese

Preparation Time:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 40 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants (about 500g or 1.1 lbs), sliced into 3 layers
• 30 ml (1 fl oz) olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/3 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (dried)
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp paprika

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven: Set it to 180°C (356°F).
2. Prepare the eggplant: Slice each eggplant into 3 layers. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and paprika.
3. Bake the eggplant: Place the eggplant slices on a lined baking tray and bake for 20 minutes until tender.
4. Prepare the meat filling (optional): Sauté ground meat of your choice (such as beef or turkey) with onions, garlic, salt, and your preferred spices. Add tomato sauce or diced tomatoes to enhance the flavor.
5. Assemble the dish: In a baking dish, layer the baked eggplant slices with the meat filling between the layers.
6. Add cheese: Top the layered eggplant with your choice of cheese (mozzarella or cheddar recommended).
7. Bake again: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
8. Serve and enjoy: Garnish as desired and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this dish with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad to create a complete meal.

Cooking Tips:

• For a vegetarian option, replace the meat filling with lentils or a blend of mushrooms and bell peppers.
• To reduce the bitterness of the eggplant, sprinkle salt on the slices and let them sit for 30 minutes before baking. Rinse and pat dry before proceeding.

Nutritional Benefits:

• High fiber: Eggplant provides a rich source of dietary fiber.
• Protein-packed: The dish is high in protein, especially if using ground meat or plant-based options like lentils.
• Antioxidant-rich: Eggplants and olive oil are both excellent sources of antioxidants.

Dietary Information:

• Low-carb and gluten-free.
• Keto-friendly: Omit the tomato sauce and pair with leafy greens to make this dish keto-compatible.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 4g

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Versatile: Customizable with various fillings and cheese options.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices and tender eggplant makes each bite delicious.
• Meal-prep friendly: Prepare in advance and reheat for quick, satisfying meals.
• Family-friendly: Perfect for a wholesome dinner that everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion:

Baked eggplant with meat filling and cheese is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. The tender layers of eggplant combined with the savory meat filling and melted cheese create a satisfying meal that’s sure to please any crowd. Whether for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is both delicious and adaptable to different dietary preferences, making it a must-try for eggplant lovers!

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, simply substitute the meat with lentils or a mix of vegetables such as mushrooms and spinach.
• Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, freeze individual portions and reheat in the oven or microwave when needed.
• What type of cheese works best? Mozzarella, cheddar, or even feta cheese complement this dish well.
• Can I use different spices? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin, basil, or thyme.
• Do I have to peel the eggplant? No, the skin is edible and adds texture to the dish.
• Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, simply use a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese altogether.
• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the eggplant and meat layers in advance and bake when ready to serve.
• How do I prevent eggplant from being bitter? Salt the eggplant slices, let them sit for 30 minutes, then rinse and pat dry before baking.
• Can I grill the eggplant instead of baking it? Yes, grilling the eggplant adds a smoky flavor to the dish.
• What can I serve with this dish? Serve with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a well-balanced meal.