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Mediterranean eggplant beef casserole is a must-try!

mediterranean eggplant beef casserole
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Mediterranean eggplant beef casserole features savory layers of roasted eggplant, seasoned beef, creamy cheeses, sweet roasted tomatoes, and briny olives baked beneath a golden bubbly crust for an unforgettable comfort food experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large eggplants, sliced into rounds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef until browned. Add onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes until rich and thick.
  3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, feta cheese, egg, and parsley. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  4. Spread a thin layer of beef sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Add a layer of roasted eggplant. Spread part of the ricotta mixture over the eggplant. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
  5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Scatter the cherry tomatoes and kalamata olives evenly across the casserole. Finish with oregano.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbling, golden brown, and beautifully caramelized.
  7. Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Roast the eggplant thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
  • Allow the dish to rest before slicing for clean and beautiful portions.
  • Use freshly grated mozzarella for the most luxurious melt and texture.
  • Substitute part of the beef with finely chopped mushrooms for a lighter version with extra flavor.
  • This recipe is naturally gluten-free when all packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Enjoy as served for a hearty low-carb meal packed with protein and vegetables.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.homeydishes.com/mediterranean-eggplant-beef-casserole-recipe/