17 Best Italian Stuffed Eggplant Recipe Elevate Your Taste Buds!
Published on: Mar 16, 2024
Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. One of the most delicious and flavorful ways to prepare eggplant is by stuffing it with a delicious filling. In this article, we will be sharing the best Italian stuffed eggplant recipe that is sure to impress your dinner guests and leave them wanting more.
The star of this dish is the eggplant, so it's important to choose the best one. Look for firm and shiny eggplants that are free of any bruises or blemishes. You will need 2 large eggplants for this recipe.
Breadcrumbs
Italian-style breadcrumbs will add a delicious flavor to the stuffing. You can also use regular breadcrumbs and add some Italian seasoning and parmesan cheese for a similar taste.
Ground Meat
Traditionally, this recipe calls for ground beef, but you can also use ground pork, chicken, or turkey for a healthier option.
Vegetables
The filling for this stuffed eggplant recipe is packed with fresh vegetables such as onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes. These add great texture and flavor to the dish.
Cheese
No Italian dish is complete without some cheese. Mozzarella cheese is the perfect choice for this recipe, but you can also use provolone or a mix of both.
Seasonings
Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper are the key seasonings for this recipe. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley and basil for an extra burst of flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
Start by washing and slicing the eggplant in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about a quarter inch of flesh around the edges. Sprinkle salt on the eggplant halves and let them sit for about 20 minutes to remove any excess moisture.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a pan, cook the ground meat until it's lightly browned. Add in the chopped vegetables and seasonings and cook until the vegetables are softened. Finally, add in the breadcrumbs and mix well.
Step 3: Stuff the Eggplant
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Rinse the eggplant halves and pat them dry. Fill each half with the meat and vegetable mixture, making sure to press it down firmly. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Place the stuffed eggplant halves on a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the eggplant is tender. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of this Italian stuffed eggplant.
In conclusion, this Italian stuffed eggplant recipe is a great way to elevate your dinner game and impress your guests. The combination of the tender eggplant, flavorful filling, and melted cheese will have everyone asking for seconds. Give this recipe a try and savor the taste of Italy in every bite.
