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Cheesy stuffed eggplant parmesan bake will wow you!

cheesy stuffed eggplant parmesan bake
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A cheesy stuffed eggplant parmesan bake that is rich, hearty, and loaded with savory Italian flavors, perfect for a comforting dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large eggplants
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (for the base)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the base)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Extra parmesan cheese (for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the eggplant: Slice eggplants lengthwise without cutting all the way through, creating thin sections while keeping the base intact. Brush with olive oil and season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. Roast until tender: Place eggplants in a baking dish and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes until slightly softened and tender.
  3. Make the filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef or sausage until browned. Add onion, garlic, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Stir in oregano, basil, crushed red pepper, and marinara sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Stuff the eggplant: Carefully spoon the savory meat filling between the eggplant layers, making sure every section is packed with flavor.
  5. Add the cheese: Pour marinara sauce around the eggplants in the baking dish. Top generously with mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, parsley, and Italian seasoning.
  6. Bake until bubbly: Bake for another 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and bubbling beautifully.
  7. Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, extra parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Serve hot with crusty bread or pasta.

Notes

  • Pair with garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, creamy polenta, or spaghetti for a comforting Italian-style dinner.
  • Use ground turkey for a lighter protein option.
  • Add spinach or zucchini to the filling for extra vegetables.
  • Choose part-skim mozzarella to reduce fat.
  • Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.

Nutrition

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