Discover a new way to enjoy eggplant with this simple and cost-effective Eggplant Beef Recipe! Perfect for those seeking a hearty meal without breaking the bank, this dish combines the soft, creamy texture of eggplant with the rich flavor of ground beef, all topped with melty mozzarella. Follow this step-by-step guide to creating an eggplant dish that might just become your new favorite.
Ingredients
- Olive Oil
- Onion: 1/2, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Ground Beef: 200g
- Yellow Bell Pepper: 1/4, chopped
- Tomato: 1 large, chopped
- Eggplant: 1 large, sliced lengthwise
- Unsalted Butter
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
- Paprika: To taste
- Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded
- Parsley: Fresh, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Beef Mixture
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned, about 3-5 minutes.
- Mix in chopped yellow bell pepper and tomato, cooking for another 3 minutes.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Remove from heat.
Prepare the Eggplant
- In another pan, melt some unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Brush olive oil over the eggplant slices and season with salt and black pepper.
- Cook the eggplant slices for 2 minutes on each side until slightly softened and golden.
Assemble and Bake
- Preheat oven to 356°F (180°C).
- Place cooked eggplant slices on a baking tray.
- Scoop the beef mixture onto each slice, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with another slice of eggplant and repeat the layering if desired.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Tips
- Choosing the Right Eggplant: Select eggplants that are firm and heavy for their size. These are fresher and have fewer seeds.
- Sweating the Eggplant: To reduce bitterness, sprinkle salt on the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes before cooking. Rinse and pat dry.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese such as provolone or smoked mozzarella for a different taste profile.
Nutritional Information
This Eggplant Beef Recipe not only delivers on flavor but also offers a range of nutritional benefits:
- Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving, making it a moderate-calorie meal option.
- Proteins: Provides about 22 grams of protein per serving, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Fats: Contains healthy fats from olive oil and unsalted butter, contributing to roughly 18 grams per serving.
- Carbohydrates: Low in carbs, with about 15 grams per serving, mainly from vegetables.
- Fiber: Eggplant is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamins B and C from bell peppers and tomatoes, and also provides iron and zinc from the beef.
Serving Suggestions
- Complementary Sides: Try serving this dish with a light quinoa salad or a side of garlic bread for added texture.
- For a Hearty Meal: Accompany with roasted potatoes or a rice pilaf to make it more filling.
- Garnishing Options: Enhance the dish by adding some crumbled feta or parmesan on top before baking for extra flavor.
FAQs
Q: How long can I store the leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warm.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, ensure that all ingredients such as spices and sauces are gluten-free. Also, use gluten-free flour if adding any thickener.
Q: Is there a low-fat version of this recipe? A: For a lower fat option, use lean ground beef or ground turkey and reduce the amount of cheese and olive oil.
Explore More
Explore these delicious recipes to complement your Eggplant Beef Dish:
- Grated Potato Casserole: A perfect side dish, this Grated Potato Casserole offers a hearty and comforting addition to any meal.
- Spinach and Cheese Bake: For a vegetarian side, try this flavorful Spinach and Cheese Bake, a great complement to the richness of the beef.
- Egg and Spring Onion Frittata: A lighter option, this Egg and Spring Onion Frittata is ideal for those looking for a healthy and satisfying meal.