Super Eggplant Casserole

This hearty casserole features breaded and fried eggplant slices layered with seasoned ground beef, fresh tomatoes, and a blend of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Topped with an egg and milk wash, it bakes into a rich, comforting main dish perfect for family dinners. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a satisfying and versatile option for any occasion.

Cooking Method: Baking, Frying

Cuisine: Global

Courses: Main Courses

Difficulty: Advanced

Servings: 2

Calories: 628.3

Description

This hearty casserole features breaded and fried eggplant slices layered with seasoned ground beef, fresh tomatoes, and a blend of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Topped with an egg and milk wash, it bakes into a rich, comforting main dish perfect for family dinners. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a satisfying and versatile option for any occasion.

Directions

1
Cut the eggplant into 1/2" thick slices.
2
Dissolve the 1/2 cup of salt in the 3 quarts of water.
3
Add the eggplant slices to the salt water.
4
Let soak for 30 minutes.
5
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
6
Drain the eggplant thoroughly and pat dry.
7
Combine the first 2 eggs with the 2 tablespoons of milk and mix well.
8
Dip the eggplant slices in the egg mixture.
9
Coat the slices with the bacon-flavored cracker crumbs.
10
Fry the slices, a few at a time, in the melted margarine just until browned, turning once.
11
Drain the fried eggplant on paper towels.
12
Sauté the ground chuck with the chopped onion and green bell pepper until the meat is lightly browned.
13
Stir in the Lawry's seasoned salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, dried oregano, and crumbled bay leaf.
14
Layer 1/3 of the eggplant slices, half the beef mixture, half the tomato slices, and half the cheddar cheese into a greased (13"x9"x2") baking dish.
15
Repeat the layers.
16
Top with the remaining eggplant slices.
17
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the top.
18
Combine the second 2 eggs with the 1/2 cup of milk.
19
Pour the egg mixture over the casserole.
20
Bake for 35 minutes.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2 cups

Amount Per Serving
Calories 628.3kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 46.9g73%
Saturated Fat 18.1g91%
Cholesterol 95.6mg32%
Sodium 6209.8mg259%
Total Carbohydrate 6.5g3%
Dietary Fiber 1.5g6%
Sugars 3.5g
Protein 37.5g75%

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

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/super-eggplant-casserole/