Super Eggplant Casserole
A hearty eggplant casserole combining tender eggplant, seasoned ground meat, rice, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the eggplant into 1-inch square pieces.
- Parboil the eggplant for about 5 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, ground meat, and peeled diced tomatoes; sauté about 5 minutes or until tender.
- Combine the meat mixture with cooked rice and seasonings, then add to the eggplant and mix well.
- Spoon the mixture into a buttered casserole dish and sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes or until the cheese is melted and eggplant is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different flavor profile, try substituting zucchini for the eggplant or using ground turkey in place of beef. To enhance the dish, add garlic or bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, consider using leftover rice from another meal. This casserole can also be made ahead and frozen before baking for a quick weeknight dinner.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious on its own, but pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Quick Surprise Rolls or a light vegetable side like Crock-Pot Vegetables. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can add a nice finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Super Eggplant Casserole contains roughly 425 calories, with 13g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2566mg per serving (112% 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 add other vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you add more moisture-rich vegetables to ensure the casserole cooks evenly.
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).