Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that transforms humble eggplants into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This classic Italian-inspired Eggplant Parmesan with Meat Sauce is not just a recipe—it's a symphony of flavors that marries tender, golden-baked eggplant with rich, savory meat sauce and layers of melted cheese. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a cooking novice, this dish promises to elevate your dinner game and transport you straight to the heart of Italy with every single bite.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants, sliced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the eggplants. Slice the two large eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle salt over the slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This will help reduce bitterness and prevent the eggplants from becoming too soggy during cooking.
- After 30 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water to remove the salt and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure that the eggplants do not retain excess moisture.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and slightly golden.
- While the eggplants are baking, prepare the meat sauce. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If desired, add half of the chopped fresh basil to the sauce for added flavor.
- In a separate bowl, beat the two eggs. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and the remaining chopped basil. This will be used for the layering process.
- Once the eggplant slices are done baking, it's time to assemble the dish. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of baked eggplant slices over the sauce, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce topped with mozzarella cheese and the breadcrumb mixture for added texture.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove the Eggplant Parmesan from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious homemade Eggplant Parmesan with Meat Sauce!
Tips
- Salt and Drain: Always salt your eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture. This prevents a soggy final dish and reduces bitterness.
- Pat Dry Thoroughly: After salting, ensure you pat the eggplant slices completely dry with paper towels to achieve that perfect golden-brown texture.
- Don't Rush the Layering: Take your time when assembling the layers. Even distribution ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil makes a significant difference in taste compared to dried herbs. If possible, use fresh basil for garnishing.
- Let it Rest: Always allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes serving much easier.
- Cheese Selection: Use freshly grated Parmesan and high-quality mozzarella for the best melting and flavor profile.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to add extra herbs or a splash of red wine to your meat sauce for deeper flavor complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 120mg
