Baked Stuffed Eggplant Rounds

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Transform eggplants into a delectable, no-fry dish that everyone will rave about! This simple and economical recipe features eggplant rounds topped with a savory mixture of ground beef, vegetables, and spices, all baked to perfection with melted mozzarella cheese.

Ingredients:

  • 1 eggplant, sliced into rounds about 1/2 inch thick
  • Olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 200 grams ground beef
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • Salt, to taste
  • Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, thyme), to taste
  • Smoked paprika, to taste
  • Ground black pepper, to taste
  • 100 grams mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • A sprig of parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Eggplant:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • Brush both sides of the eggplant rounds with olive oil and arrange them on the baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt and a little smoked paprika.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is tender.
  2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
    • While the eggplant is baking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil, then the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.
    • Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
    • Stir in the chopped tomato, minced garlic, tomato paste, Italian herbs, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until everything is well combined and the tomato breaks down slightly.
  3. Assemble the Eggplant Rounds:
    • Remove the eggplant rounds from the oven. Top each round with a generous spoonful of the beef mixture, spreading it to cover the surface.
    • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over each topped eggplant round.
  4. Bake:
    • Return the eggplant to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Serve:
    • Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot as a main dish or a hearty side.

Conclusion:

These Baked Stuffed Eggplant Rounds are a fantastic, healthful alternative to fried dishes, offering a rich blend of flavors that elevate the humble eggplant to a new level. The combination of savory beef, aromatic herbs, and melted cheese, all nestled on a soft bed of eggplant, makes this dish irresistibly delicious. Enjoy this easy-to-make, budget-friendly recipe that is sure to become a family favorite.