Hearty and Flavorful Eggplant Casserole

Eggplant CasserolePhoto byThe Cozy Cook

Eggplant casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for a satisfying meal. The tender eggplant, creamy sauce, and melted cheese come together to create a comforting and delicious experience. Let's get started!

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Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Prep the eggplant: In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge eggplant slices in the mixture, shaking off excess.
2. Cook the eggplant: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, brown ground beef. Add onion and garlic, and cook until softened. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until thickened.
4. Assemble the casserole: In a 9x13 inch baking dish, layer eggplant slices, ground beef mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
5. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Conclusion:

Eggplant casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to please everyone. Serve with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy!