This robust one-dish meal brings together the smoky richness of bacon and lean ground beef with the earthy sweetness of roasted eggplant. The dish is bound together by a simple tomato sauce and brightened with crumbled feta cheese, creating a comforting balance of textures and flavors. Its a satisfying option for weeknight dinners when you want something substantial without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of soft vegetables, savory meat, and crunchy crouton topping makes it a crowd-pleaser that works well for family meals or casual gatherings. Serve it straight from the microwave or oven for a warm, inviting plate that feels like home-cooked comfort food.
South Of The Border Eggplant
Description
This robust one-dish meal brings together the smoky richness of bacon and lean ground beef with the earthy sweetness of roasted eggplant. The dish is bound together by a simple tomato sauce and brightened with crumbled feta cheese, creating a comforting balance of textures and flavors. Its a satisfying option for weeknight dinners when you want something substantial without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of soft vegetables, savory meat, and crunchy crouton topping makes it a crowd-pleaser that works well for family meals or casual gatherings. Serve it straight from the microwave or oven for a warm, inviting plate that feels like home-cooked comfort food.Ingredients
Directions
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In a deep, 2-quart, heat-resistant, non-metallic casserole dish, arrange bacon slices in a single layer and cover with paper toweling.
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Microwave bacon on high for 4 minutes or until crisp.
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Carefully remove bacon from the dish and set aside on a paper towel to drain.
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Reserve the bacon fat left in the casserole dish.
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Add the ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, and green pepper to the reserved bacon fat.
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Microwave uncovered for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and the beef is browned and cooked through.
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Add the eggplant slices, salt, pepper, tomato sauce, crumbled feta cheese, and the reserved crispy bacon to the meat mixture.
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Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
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Cover the casserole and microwave for 8 minutes or until the eggplant is fork-tender.
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Sprinkle the seasoned croutons over the top.
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Microwave uncovered for an additional 1 minute to heat through and crisp the croutons slightly.
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Let stand for 2 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 798.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 53.4g83%
- Saturated Fat 18.5g93%
- Cholesterol 132.3mg45%
- Sodium 1799.8mg75%
- Total Carbohydrate 4.0g2%
- Dietary Fiber 0.4g2%
- Sugars 1.6g
- Protein 69.1g139%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Ensure you use a microwave-safe casserole dish that is large enough to hold the ingredients without overflowing.
If you prefer a crispier topping, you can toast the croutons in a toaster oven before adding them, or broil the finished dish for 1-2 minutes (watch closely to prevent burning).
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili powder or cumin to the ground beef mixture.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
If you do not have a microwave, this recipe can be adapted for the oven: Brown the beef and veggies on the stovetop, combine all ingredients in a baking dish, and bake at 375F (190C) for 25-30 minutes until eggplant is tender. Add croutons in the last 5 minutes.
