Stuffed eggplants filled with zucchini, ground beef, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese, served fresh from the oven on a rustic plate

How to Make Stuffed Eggplants with Zucchini, Ground Beef, and Mozzarella Cheese

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Stuffed Eggplants with Zucchini, Ground Beef, and Mozzarella Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal, Stuffed Eggplants with Zucchini, Ground Beef, and Mozzarella Cheese is the perfect choice. This dish combines the savory goodness of ground beef, fresh zucchini, and melted mozzarella, all stuffed into tender eggplants and baked to perfection. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

For the stuffed eggplants:
  • 2 medium eggplants
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the sauce:
  • 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplants

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise.
  3. Using a spoon, scoop out the flesh from the center of each half, leaving about 1/2 inch of the shell intact.
  4. Chop the scooped-out eggplant flesh into small pieces and set aside.
  5. Drizzle the eggplant halves with olive oil, sprinkle with a little salt and pepper, and place them on a baking sheet, cut side up.
  6. Roast the eggplant halves in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and slightly browned.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. While the eggplants are roasting, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant and softened.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 7-10 minutes).
  4. Add the diced zucchini and the chopped eggplant flesh to the skillet. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the zucchini is softened.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the marinara sauce, dried thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Stuff the Eggplants

  1. Once the eggplant halves are done roasting, carefully spoon the beef and zucchini mixture into the eggplant shells, packing them gently to fit.
  2. Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the stuffed eggplants.
  3. Top each stuffed eggplant with additional shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Eggplants

  1. Return the stuffed eggplants to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tops are slightly golden.
  2. For an extra golden and bubbly top, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

  1. Remove the stuffed eggplants from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for Success

  • Choose the right eggplants: Look for eggplants that are firm and have smooth, glossy skin. They should feel heavy for their size.
  • Customize the filling: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
  • Make it vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein or lentils.
  • Extra cheese: For cheese lovers, sprinkle extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top for an even richer flavor.

CONCLUSION

These Stuffed Eggplants with Zucchini, Ground Beef, and Mozzarella Cheese are a delicious and wholesome meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender eggplants, savory beef, and gooey cheese create a flavor combination that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as a main course or a side dish, they’re sure to be a hit. Enjoy every bite

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