Description
A rich Italian-inspired baked dish made with tender roasted eggplant layered with hearty beef ragu and smoky melted mozzarella. This comforting casserole is packed with savory flavor and perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/2 inch slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces smoked mozzarella, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Arrange on the baking sheet and roast for 15 to 20 minutes until tender.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of beef ragu on the bottom of a baking dish. Add a layer of roasted eggplant slices and spoon more ragu over the eggplant.
- Top with slices of smoked mozzarella and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the ragu.
- Allowing the dish to rest before slicing helps the layers hold together.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish reheats well in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
