Baked Eggplant with Meat Filling and Cheese

Preheat oven to 180°C (356°F).
Prepare the eggplants: Slice the eggplants into 3 layers each. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and paprika.
Bake the eggplant: Place the slices on a lined baking tray and bake for 20 minutes until tender.
Prepare the meat filling (optional): Cook ground meat of your choice (e.g., beef or turkey) with onions, garlic, salt, and your preferred spices. Add tomato sauce or diced tomatoes for flavor.
Layer the eggplants: In a baking dish, layer the baked eggplant slices with the meat filling in between.
Top with cheese of your choice (mozzarella or cheddar).
Bake again: Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
Cooking Tips:
If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meat filling with lentils or a vegetable mixture like mushrooms and bell peppers.
To reduce bitterness, sprinkle salt on eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes before baking, then rinse and pat dry.
Nutritional Benefits:
Rich in fiber from eggplants.
High in protein if using ground meat or a plant-based filling like lentils.
Packed with antioxidants from eggplants and olive oil.
Dietary Information:
Low-carb and gluten-free.
Can be made keto-friendly by skipping the tomato sauce and serving with leafy greens.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
Calories: 220
Protein: 12g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Storage:
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 1 month.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Versatile: Easily customizable with different fillings and cheese types.
Flavor-packed: The combination of spices and tender eggplant makes every bite delicious.
Great for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and reheat for a quick meal.
Family-friendly: Perfect for a hearty and nutritious dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Conclusion:
Baked eggplant with meat filling and cheese is a flavorful and hearty dish that’s easy to make and packed with nutrients. The tender layers of eggplant paired with the savory filling and cheese make this a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or simply enjoying a meal at home, this recipe delivers on taste and satisfaction. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to various dietary preferences, making it a must-try dish for eggplant lovers!

Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the meat with lentils or a mix of vegetables like mushrooms and spinach.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, freeze in individual portions and reheat in the oven or microwave.
What kind of cheese works best?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or even feta work well for this dish.
Can I use different spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin, basil, or thyme.
Do I have to peel the eggplant?
No, the skin of the eggplant is edible and adds texture to the dish.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether.
Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layers in advance and bake when ready to serve.
How do I prevent the eggplant from being bitter?
Salt the eggplant slices, let them sit for 30 minutes, then rinse and pat dry before baking.
Can I grill the eggplant instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling adds a nice smoky flavor to the eggplant.
What can I serve with this dish?
Serve it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.