Potluck Surprise

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Servings: 6 Difficulty: Advanced
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A creamy, cheesy bake with ground beef, macaroni, and tender eggplant
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Potluck Surprise

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 6 Calories: 1101.7

Description

This hearty casserole combines savory browned ground beef with tender cubes of roasted eggplant and pasta, all bound together in a rich, creamy sauce. The blend of sharp cheddar cheese and tangy sour cream creates a luscious texture that balances the earthiness of the vegetables. Its an unexpected twist on traditional macaroni dishes, offering a comforting yet sophisticated flavor profile perfect for potlucks or family dinners. The addition of pimento adds a subtle sweetness and pop of color, while Italian seasoning ties the flavors together. Easy to prepare and universally loved, this dish is a reliable crowd-pleaser that feels both homestyle and special.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).
  2. Peel the eggplant and cut it into 1/2-inch cubes.
  3. Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water according to package directions until al dente; drain well.
  4. While the pasta cooks, heat a large Dutch oven or skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Add the ground beef and chopped onion to the pan.
  6. Cook, stirring occasionally and breaking up the meat, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened.
  7. Drain off any excess fat from the pan.
  8. Reduce heat to medium and stir in the salt, Italian seasoning, and pepper.
  9. Add the cooked macaroni, eggplant cubes, sour cream, chopped pimento, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
  10. Stir gently until all ingredients are well combined and the cheese begins to melt.
  11. Transfer the mixture to an ungreased 3-quart casserole dish.
  12. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  13. Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  14. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving hot.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 1101.7kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 69.1g107%
Saturated Fat 39.3g197%
Cholesterol 277.6mg93%
Sodium 8321.7mg347%
Total Carbohydrate 32.6g11%
Dietary Fiber 2.9g12%
Sugars 5.8g
Protein 83.8g168%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: casserole, eggplant, ground beef, macaroni, cheddar, sour cream, italian seasoning, potluck, comfort food, baked pasta, vegetable bake, family dinner, cheesy, pimento, easy main
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