Savory Baked Eggplant (Print)
Layers of eggplant and seasoned beef topped with bubbling cheese create a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners.
# Ingredients:
→ Eggplant
01 -
2 large eggplants
02 -
Olive oil, for brushing
03 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Meat Filling
04 -
500g ground beef
05 -
1 medium onion, finely diced
06 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
1 teaspoon dried oregano
08 -
1 teaspoon dried basil
09 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Cheese Topping
10 -
240g shredded mozzarella cheese
11 -
120g freshly grated Parmesan cheese
12 -
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
# Directions:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 190°C. Slice the eggplants lengthwise into 1.25cm thick slices. Arrange on a baking sheet, brush both sides with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
02 -
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking until onions are translucent and flavors are well combined.
03 -
In a greased baking dish, arrange a single layer of eggplant slices. Spoon a layer of meat filling over the eggplant. Continue alternating layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with eggplant on top.
04 -
Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top layer of eggplant.
05 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves and serving.
# Notes:
01 -
This dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking. Allow for additional baking time if cooking from cold.