Layered eggplant hamburger casserole –Today, I’m excited to share a delicious recipe that combines the rich flavors of eggplant with hearty ground beef. This Eggplant Casserole with Ground Beef is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish will surely be a hit! Let’s dive into the details.
Eggplant Casserole with Ground Beef
Here’s a visual treat of what you can expect from this delightful casserole:
Ingredients
To make this Eggplant Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Now, let’s move on to the preparation steps you’ll want to follow:
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle salt on both sides of the slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. After 30 minutes, rinse and pat them dry.
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, usually about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once cooked, drain excess fat if necessary.
- Mix in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the eggplant slices on the bottom. Spread half of the meat mixture on top and then sprinkle with a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with mozzarella and topping with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and hearty eggplant casserole!
This Eggplant Casserole with Ground Beef is hearty, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you serve it warm or enjoy it as leftovers, it’s sure to be a favorite. Give it a try and savor every bite!