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South Of The Border Eggplant

South of the Border Eggplant recipe image
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.
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4
Calories: 798.4
Dietary: Gluten-free
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
  • 4 sl Raw bacon
  • 1 md Onion, finely chopped
  • 1 pound Lean ground beef round
  • 1 Clove Garlic, peeled and
  • 1 md Green pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 md Eggplant, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch slices
  • 1 ts Salt
  • 1/8 ts Pepper
  • 15 oz Can tomato sauce
  • 1/2 c Crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 c Seasoned croutons
Directions
  1. 1
    In a deep, 2-quart, heat-resistant, non-metallic casserole dish, arrange bacon slices in a single layer and cover with paper toweling.
  2. 2
    Microwave bacon on high for 4 minutes or until crisp.
  3. 3
    Carefully remove bacon from the dish and set aside on a paper towel to drain.
  4. 4
    Reserve the bacon fat left in the casserole dish.
  5. 5
    Add the ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, and green pepper to the reserved bacon fat.
  6. 6
    Microwave uncovered for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and the beef is browned and cooked through.
  7. 7
    Add the eggplant slices, salt, pepper, tomato sauce, crumbled feta cheese, and the reserved crispy bacon to the meat mixture.
  8. 8
    Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  9. 9
    Cover the casserole and microwave for 8 minutes or until the eggplant is fork-tender.
  10. 10
    Sprinkle the seasoned croutons over the top.
  11. 11
    Microwave uncovered for an additional 1 minute to heat through and crisp the croutons slightly.
  12. 12
    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.

Keywords: eggplant, bacon, ground beef, casserole, microwave recipe, quick dinner, feta cheese, tomato sauce, comfort food, meat and veggie, easy meal, croutons, one dish, hearty, savory, weeknight dinner, family meal, protein packed, quick cook, homestyle, vegetable main
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/south-of-the-border-eggplant/