Welcome to an indulgent and hearty recipe that combines tender eggplants, savory ground beef, and gooey mozzarella into a warm, flavorful roll. These Stuffed Eggplant Rolls are filled with a delicious mixture of ground beef, vegetables, and spices, all encased in roasted eggplant and topped with melty mozzarella cheese. Paired with a fresh, tangy salad on the side, this dish makes for a fantastic meal that is full of rich flavors and textures. Whether you’re planning for a family dinner or entertaining guests, these rolls are sure to impress!
Cooking Time
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time (Eggplants): 25 minutes
Cooking Time (Meat Filling): 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Eggplants:
-
3 small eggplants, sliced
-
12 oz (350 g) ground beef
-
1 onion, finely chopped
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tbsp coconut sugar (or substitute regular sugar)
-
1 tbsp tomato paste
-
¼ cup (60 g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
-
1 bell pepper, finely chopped
-
1 tsp smoked paprika
-
1 tsp Italian herbs
-
1 cup (250 ml) vegetable broth
-
1 bunch cilantro, finely chopped
-
1 cup (100 g) mini mozzarella balls, halved
-
3 tbsp olive oil
-
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
-
3 boiled potatoes, cut into cubes
-
5.3 oz (150 g) red cabbage, finely shredded
-
3 pickles, finely chopped
-
3.5 oz (100 g) canned peas, drained
-
3 tbsp Greek yogurt
-
1 tbsp lemon juice
-
1 tbsp mustard
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
-
Prepare the Eggplants:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Slice the eggplants into rounds about ½ inch thick. Lay them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and slightly golden. -
Prepare the Ground Beef Filling:
While the eggplants are roasting, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. -
Season the Beef Filling:
Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Stir in the coconut sugar and cook until the beef is browned, about 7–8 minutes. Add tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, bell pepper, paprika, Italian herbs, and vegetable broth. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside. -
Assemble the Rolls:
Once the eggplant slices are roasted, place one slice on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the ground beef mixture on top of each slice, then add a few cubes of mozzarella. Carefully roll each slice tightly into a log shape. Repeat until all eggplant slices are filled and rolled. -
Bake the Rolls:
Arrange the stuffed eggplant rolls in a baking dish, seam side down. Sprinkle any remaining mozzarella on top. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the rolls are heated through. -
Prepare the Salad:
In a mixing bowl, combine the boiled potatoes, shredded red cabbage, pickles, and canned peas. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the eggplant rolls are ready, plate them along with the refreshing salad. Enjoy this delicious, flavorful meal hot out of the oven!
Nutritional Information (per serving; makes 4 servings)
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 7 g
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 350 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Stuffed eggplants have their origins in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, where vegetables are often filled with a mixture of meats, grains, or legumes. Eggplant, or aubergine, is a versatile vegetable widely used across various cultures. This dish combines traditional stuffed eggplant methods with modern, fresh ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and cilantro, making it a vibrant twist on classic comfort food. The use of ground beef adds heartiness, while the cheese filling elevates the richness, making it a popular choice for family dinners or dinner parties.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
-
Flavorful Layers: The combination of roasted eggplant, seasoned ground beef, and melted mozzarella creates a mouthwatering contrast.
-
Healthy & Hearty: Packed with vegetables, protein, and healthy fats, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
-
Customizable: Use different cheeses or add herbs to suit your personal taste. You can even swap ground beef for turkey or a vegetarian alternative.
-
Great for Entertaining: This dish can be made ahead, then baked just before serving for easy dinner parties or family meals.
Health Benefits
-
Eggplants: Rich in antioxidants like nasunin, which protect brain health, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation.
-
Ground Beef: A high source of protein and iron, essential for muscle maintenance and blood health.
-
Cabbage: Packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, supporting immunity and digestive health.
-
Olive Oil & Garlic: Known for their heart-healthy properties, boosting immunity, and lowering cholesterol.
Serving Suggestions
-
Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the eggplant rolls.
-
Bread: Pair with warm, crusty bread or a garlic baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.
-
Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red like Merlot or Zinfandel complements the savory richness of the beef and eggplant.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Underseasoning the Beef: Be sure to taste the beef mixture as it cooks and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
-
Overcrowding the Baking Dish: If you’re making multiple rolls, be sure they’re not packed too tightly to ensure even cooking.
-
Skipping the Eggplant Soak: Soaking eggplants in saltwater helps remove bitterness and improves texture, making them more palatable and less greasy.
-
Not Letting the Rolls Cool Slightly: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving to avoid burns from the hot cheese and filling.
Pairing Recommendations
-
Wine: A robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon will complement the meaty, savory flavors of the stuffed rolls.
-
Beer: A light pale ale or amber beer balances the richness and freshness of the eggplant rolls.
-
Non-Alcoholic: Iced tea with lemon or sparkling water with mint enhances the fresh flavors of the meal.
Cooking Tips
-
Cheese Variations: You can swap mozzarella for any soft cheese such as ricotta or goat cheese.
-
Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with mushrooms, lentils, or quinoa for a hearty vegetarian filling.
-
Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed rolls a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Simply bake them before serving.
Similar Recipes to Try
-
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Another Mediterranean favorite, stuffed with a mix of rice, ground meat, and vegetables.
-
Eggplant Parmesan: Layered eggplant with marinara sauce and cheese for a classic Italian comfort food.
-
Zucchini Boats: Hollowed zucchini filled with a savory mixture of meat or vegetables.
Variations to Try
-
Spicy Kick: Add some chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
-
Cheese Lovers: Mix in crumbled feta or goat cheese with the mozzarella for an extra creamy filling.
-
Herbed Filling: Try adding fresh basil or oregano to the beef mixture for an aromatic twist.
Ingredient Spotlight
Eggplant
Eggplants are a rich source of antioxidants, particularly nasunin, which helps protect brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. The unique compounds in eggplant also contribute to heart health by improving circulation and lowering cholesterol.
Conclusion
These Stuffed Eggplant Rolls with Ground Beef and Mozzarella are the perfect blend of healthy and indulgent, combining rich flavors and tender textures in a dish that is sure to impress. With layers of flavor from the savory ground beef, fragrant garlic, and creamy mozzarella, it’s a comforting meal that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe will quickly become a favorite on your table.
FAQ
-
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the rolls, refrigerate them overnight, and bake them the next day. -
Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative. -
Can I bake the eggplant rolls instead of frying?
Yes, bake them at 180°C (350°F) for 25 minutes or until golden and crisp. -
Can I freeze these rolls?
Yes, freeze the rolls before baking. Thaw them in the refrigerator and bake as usual. -
Can I use regular mozzarella instead of mini mozzarella balls?
Yes, use shredded or sliced mozzarella in place of mini mozzarella balls. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. -
Can I make these rolls vegan?
Yes, substitute ground lentils or mushrooms for the beef and use vegan cheese in place of mozzarella. -
How can I add more vegetables?
Add chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for extra veggies. -
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feta, goat cheese, or ricotta can be used for a different flavor profile. -
What’s the best way to serve this dish?
Serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.