This Baked Eggplant with Savory Meat Filling is a hearty, satisfying dish that combines the richness of roasted eggplant with a flavorful and juicy meat stuffing. It’s a great option for a cozy dinner or an elegant main course for gatherings. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and packed with deep, savory flavors that will impress anyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Savory Meat Filling: A delicious blend of seasoned ground meat, vegetables, and spices makes for a comforting, rich filling.
- Healthy & Flavorful: Eggplant, being naturally low in calories, complements the savory filling beautifully, creating a balance of flavors.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients
For the Eggplant:
- 2 medium eggplants
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground lamb (or a mixture of both)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced (optional)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice (optional, for added warmth)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for added texture)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper