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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Bake:
- Return the eggplant to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- 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.
