This Cheesy Baked Eggplant and Minced Meat Casserole is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender eggplant slices, savory minced meat, aromatic spices, and a cheesy topping—all baked to perfection in a delicious tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or special gathering, this casserole is wholesome, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
For the Eggplant Base:
- 2 long, thin eggplants
- Salt (for soaking)
- Cold water
For the Meat Filling:
- 400g minced meat (beef, pork, or turkey)
- Ground pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp dry ginger
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 3-4 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise or sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- A bunch of parsley, chopped
- 100g cheese, grated (for the filling)
For the Tomato Sauce & Topping:
- 300g tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp coriander
- 1 tsp dry herbs (oregano, thyme, or basil)
- 30 ml vegetable oil
- 100g cheese, grated (for topping)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplants
- Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin strips.
- Sprinkle the slices lightly with salt and soak them in cold water for 20-30 minutes to remove bitterness.
- Rinse the eggplants under running water and pat dry with a towel.
Step 2: Prepare the Minced Meat Mixture
- In a bowl, combine the minced meat, ground pepper, dry ginger, cornstarch, soy sauce, mayonnaise (or sour cream), minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
- Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Lightly grease a baking dish with vegetable oil.
- Lay the eggplant slices flat on a clean surface.
- Spread the minced meat mixture evenly over each slice.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top of the meat.
- Carefully roll up the eggplant slices, enclosing the filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- In a bowl, mix the chopped tomatoes, flour, paprika, coriander, and dry herbs until well combined.
- Pour the tomato sauce mixture into the baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed eggplant rolls seam-side down in the sauce.
- Drizzle vegetable oil over the top.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the top in the last 10 minutes of baking for an extra cheesy finish.
- For added crispiness and color, you may broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish with additional parsley and serve hot.
- Enjoy your cheesy baked eggplant and minced meat casserole with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes!
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
The Origins and Popularity
Eggplant-based dishes have a rich history in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and European cuisines. Countries like Greece, Turkey, and Italy have variations of baked eggplant dishes that use ingredients such as meat, tomatoes, herbs, and cheese.
This cheesy baked eggplant casserole takes inspiration from traditional Greek Moussaka, Italian Eggplant Parmigiana, and Turkish Karniyarik, blending savory, cheesy, and aromatic flavors in a wholesome dish. With the rising popularity of Mediterranean cuisine, this casserole is now a beloved comfort food that is easy to make and perfect for meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a flavor-packed, cheesy, and hearty casserole, this baked eggplant dish is a must-try!
- Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with lean protein, vegetables, and fiber
- Comforting & Flavorful – A perfect homemade baked dish
- Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, everyday ingredients
- Easy to Make – Simple steps for an impressive meal
- Versatile & Customizable – Adjust the cheese, meat, or spices to your liking
Health Benefits
This cheesy eggplant casserole is not just delicious—it’s also full of essential nutrients.
- Rich in Fiber – Eggplants and tomatoes promote good digestion and gut health.
- High in Protein – Minced meat and cheese provide muscle-building protein.
- Loaded with Antioxidants – Garlic, parsley, and tomatoes help boost immunity.
- Contains Healthy Fats – Olive oil and cheese add good fats for energy.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy baked eggplant casserole pairs well with various side dishes:
- Fresh green salad with balsamic dressing
- Crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the sauce
- Steamed rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal
- Roasted vegetables for extra fiber and nutrients
Tips
For the best texture and flavor, keep these tips in mind:
- Use thin eggplants – They have fewer seeds and absorb flavors better.
- Soak the eggplant in salted water to remove bitterness.
- Drain excess moisture from tomatoes before adding them to the sauce.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and taste.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to set the flavors.
Variations to Try
This baked eggplant casserole can be easily customized:
- Spicy Version – Add chili flakes or hot paprika for heat.
- Meaty Upgrade – Use a mix of ground beef and sausage for richer flavor.
- Cheesy Delight – Add a blend of mozzarella, gouda, and feta cheese.
- Vegan Version – Replace meat with mushrooms, lentils, or tofu and use vegan cheese.
- Gluten-Free – Use almond flour instead of regular flour for thickening the sauce.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Eggplant and Minced Meat Casserole is a hearty, comforting, and flavor-packed dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for dinner, meal prep, or a family gathering, it’s a wholesome and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Try it today and enjoy the best of Mediterranean-inspired flavors in a delicious baked meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground chicken, turkey, or lamb all work well. -
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. -
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. -
How do I reheat it?
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes, or microwave in short bursts. -
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Mozzarella, parmesan, or gouda melt beautifully.
This cheesy, savory, and comforting eggplant casserole is a must-try! 🍆🧀🔥