Eggplant Skillet
A hearty eggplant skillet featuring seasoned ground beef, tomato sauce, and melted Cheddar cheese, perfect for a comforting family dinner with bold flavors and tender vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped celery until the meat is browned.
- Drain off extra fat from the skillet.
- Stir in tomato sauce, water, oregano, and chili powder.
- Season eggplant slices with salt and pepper.
- Arrange eggplant slices on top of the meat sauce.
- Cover and simmer until eggplant is tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese and heat until cheese is melted.
- Sprinkle with paprika and Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground lamb or turkey instead of beef. If eggplant is too bitter, sprinkle slices with salt and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture before rinsing and patting dry. For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms. Enhance the dish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for garnish.
Serving Suggestions
This Eggplant Skillet is delicious served over rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. For a heartier dish, consider serving with Bess' Baked Beans for a comforting combination. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top can also enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking, and cover until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Skillet contains roughly 796 calories, with 33g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (272% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (206% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1043mg per serving (45% 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 a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. Feta or goat cheese would also add a nice tangy touch. Just keep in mind that the melting characteristics may vary.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes with some added seasoning. Alternatively, a homemade sauce using fresh tomatoes and herbs can create a fresher flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or even a plant-based meat substitute. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for the vegetarian ingredients to become tender.
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).