Cheesy Stuffed Eggplant Recipe

Cheesy Stuffed Eggplant Recipe

Introduction:

Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can absorb flavors wonderfully, making it the perfect canvas for rich and hearty dishes.

This cheesy stuffed eggplant recipe is a delightful combination of savory filling and gooey melted cheese, resulting in a comforting, satisfying meal.

Whether you’re looking to prepare a flavorful vegetarian option or just want a cheesy twist on a classic dish, this recipe is bound to impress.

The rich layers of flavor from the eggplant, sauce, and cheese make this dish a perfect dinner choice that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

3 large eggplants

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, diced

1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

½ cup parmesan cheese, grated

½ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Eggplants: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about ½ inch of the eggplant’s outer layer intact.

This will form the base for your stuffed eggplants.

Set aside the scooped-out flesh to be used in the filling later.

Cook the Filling: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Next, add the diced bell pepper and the scooped-out eggplant flesh to the pan.

Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.

1. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Remove the skillet from heat once the filling is cooked.
3. Stuff the Eggplants: Place the hollowed-out eggplant halves in a greased baking dish.
4. Fill each eggplant half with the prepared vegetable filling, pressing down gently to ensure they are generously filled.
5. Sprinkle a thick layer of mozzarella cheese over the stuffed eggplants, followed by a sprinkling of grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
6. Bake: Transfer the stuffed eggplants to the preheated oven.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the eggplants are tender.
8. If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking time.
9. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the stuffed eggplants from the oven and let them cool slightly.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. These cheesy stuffed eggplants are perfect as a main dish served with a side salad or a warm loaf of bread.

Conclusion:

Cheesy stuffed eggplants are a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together the natural richness of eggplant with the deliciousness of melted cheese and a savory vegetable filling.

This meal is ideal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal.

The dish is versatile, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients in the filling to suit your preferences.

With its cheesy top and hearty filling, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Enjoy your stuffed eggplants fresh out of the oven, with the cheese oozing and full of flavor in every bite!