Eggplant Delicious
Eggplant Delicious is a comforting casserole showcasing tender, mashed eggplant blended with savory cheese, onions, and a hint of Tabasco for a subtle kick. Perfect for family dinners or vegetarian options, it combines creamy textures with crispy cheese topping for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the eggplant and boil until tender.
- Drain the eggplant and mash with a potato masher.
- Stir in oleo while hot and season with salt and pepper.
- Add beaten eggs, milk, crumbled saltines, and chopped onions to the mashed eggplant and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with grated cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use whole milk or add a splash of cream to the egg mixture. If you don't have oleo, butter or margarine can be substituted. To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic powder or herbs like thyme. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or cheddar. This dish can be a delightful vegetarian option alongside a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Eggplant Delicious warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad. For a hearty meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a slice of your favorite creamy soup. It also makes a great side for grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Eggplant Delicious should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but the oven will help maintain the crispiness of the cheese topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Delicious contains roughly 1101 calories, with 18g protein, 188g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (87% of the Daily Value), calcium (77% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2288mg per serving (99% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen eggplant instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen eggplant, but it's best to thaw and drain it thoroughly before mashing to avoid excess moisture. The texture may vary slightly, but it should still yield a delicious result.
What can I substitute for saltines?
If you don't have saltines, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can work as a substitute. For a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free crackers or oats, which will also provide a similar texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. This can also enhance the flavors, making it even more delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).