Ground Beef Stuffed Eggplant

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Eggplant
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants; 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Deliciously savory and satisfying, this Ground Beef Stuffed Eggplant is a hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of beef with tender eggplant, creating a meal that is both nutritious and fulfilling.

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2025-12-25T17:19:11.644Z

This Ground Beef Stuffed Eggplant is a perfect dish for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The eggplant serves as a delicious vessel for the seasoned ground beef, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Savory ground beef perfectly seasoned and complemented by tender eggplant
A nutritious meal that is packed with flavor
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
A great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

Ground Beef Stuffed Eggplant is the epitome of comfort food, providing a warm and hearty meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul. The combination of savory ground beef and tender eggplant creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or preparing it for meal prep, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

What makes this dish even more appealing is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling with your favorite spices or add additional vegetables for an extra nutritional boost. This recipe is not just about filling your belly; it's about enjoying a wholesome meal that brings joy and warmth to your dining experience.

Nutritional Benefits

Eggplants are a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate. They are also high in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body. When paired with ground beef, which is rich in protein and iron, this dish becomes a well-rounded meal that supports muscle health and overall wellness.

Moreover, by using fresh ingredients like tomatoes and herbs, you boost the nutritional profile even further. This dish not only nourishes your body but also encourages a healthy lifestyle by incorporating more vegetables into your meals without sacrificing flavor. It's a win-win situation for anyone aiming for a balanced diet.

Easy Meal Prep Option

One of the best aspects of Ground Beef Stuffed Eggplant is its suitability for meal prep. You can prepare a batch on the weekend and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. Simply bake the stuffed eggplants and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.

This recipe is not only time-efficient but also budget-friendly. By making several servings at once, you save time and reduce food waste. Plus, it allows you to experiment with different seasonings and ingredients, ensuring that your meals remain exciting and diverse throughout the week.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Eggplant

2 medium eggplants
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp olive oil

These ingredients will create a deliciously hearty stuffed eggplant that serves as a main dish.

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving about 1/2 inch of flesh. Set the scooped flesh aside for later.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Stir in the diced tomatoes, eggplant flesh, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until everything is well combined.

Stuff the Eggplant

Evenly distribute the beef mixture into the hollowed-out eggplant halves. Top each with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake the Eggplant

Place the stuffed eggplants on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious dish!

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Ground Beef Stuffed Eggplant, ensure that your eggplants are fresh and firm. Look for ones with smooth, shiny skin and no blemishes. This will ensure that your dish has a delightful texture and flavor. Additionally, scooping out the eggplant flesh carefully will create the perfect pockets for your filling, making every bite enjoyable.

When seasoning the beef mixture, feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. You can add a kick of heat with red pepper flakes or enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Experimenting with different ingredients will make this dish unique every time you prepare it.

Serving Suggestions

Ground Beef Stuffed Eggplant is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with a side salad or some crusty bread. A simple green salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar pairs wonderfully, adding freshness to the meal. Additionally, serving it with a side of quinoa or couscous can provide extra fiber and make the dish even more filling.

For a complete Mediterranean experience, consider serving the stuffed eggplants alongside tzatziki sauce. This creamy yogurt-based dip offers a refreshing contrast to the savory stuffing and enhances the overall flavor profile of the meal. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover stuffed eggplants, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To keep them fresh, ensure they are stored in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, approximately 15-20 minutes. This method helps maintain the texture of the eggplant and the melted cheese.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed eggplants before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed. This makes for a convenient and delicious meal option anytime you need it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed eggplants?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What other vegetables can I add to the filling?

You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.