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Cheesy stuffed eggplant boats: a delightful dinner idea!

cheesy stuffed eggplant boats
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Cheesy stuffed eggplant boats are a rich, comforting dish filled with a savory meat mixture and topped with melted cheese, perfect for a cozy homemade dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium eggplants, halved lengthwise
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out part of the flesh, leaving a sturdy shell. Brush the eggplants with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them in a baking dish and roast for 15 minutes until slightly tender.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and golden. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked. Mix in the tomato paste, cherry tomatoes, paprika, Italian seasoning, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the mixture becomes rich and flavorful. Finish with fresh parsley.
  4. Remove the eggplants from the oven and generously fill each shell with the meat mixture. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Return to the oven and bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and beautifully golden brown.
  5. Garnish with extra parsley and roasted cherry tomatoes. Serve hot with fresh salad, garlic rice, or warm toasted bread.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, roast the scooped eggplant flesh and mix it into the filling.
  • Swap ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
  • Use low-fat cheese for a lighter meal without losing the creamy texture.
  • Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.homeydishes.com/cheesy-stuffed-eggplant-boats-recipe/