Eggplant (Aubergine) Skillet Recipe 🍆🍳
Introduction:
This delightful Eggplant Skillet recipe is a cherished gem from the archives of the Better Homes and Gardens Casserole Cookbook. Bursting with flavors and textures, it’s a perfect dish for those seeking a hearty yet simple meal that can be whipped up in no time. Dive into the world of savory aromas and culinary bliss with this delectable creation! 🌟
Recipe Overview:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: Not specified
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this savory delight:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lean ground beef | 1 lb |
| Onion | 1 |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Celery | 1 stalk |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Dried oregano | 3/4 tsp |
| Chili powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Eggplant (Aubergine) | 1 |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 1-2 cups |
| Parmesan cheese | To taste |
Instructions:
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of crafting this culinary masterpiece:
-
Prepare the Eggplant:
- Start by slicing the eggplant into rounds or cubes, depending on your preference.
- Sprinkle the eggplant slices heavily with salt. This helps to draw out any bitter juices.
- Let the salted eggplant slices stand on paper towels for about 15 minutes to allow the bitter juices to drain.
- After 15 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
-
Season and Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the lean ground beef over medium heat until it’s nicely browned and crumbled.
- Add finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced celery to the skillet, and cook them along with the beef until they are tender and fragrant.
-
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- Once the beef and vegetables are cooked through, drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, water, dried oregano, and chili powder, combining all the ingredients well.
- Season the meat sauce to taste with salt and pepper, adjusting the seasoning according to your preferences.
-
Simmer with Eggplant:
- Gently bury the prepared eggplant slices in the savory meat sauce, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover the skillet and allow the eggplant to simmer in the flavorful sauce until it becomes tender and absorbs the delicious flavors.
-
Cheesy Finish:
- Once the eggplant is tender, it’s time to add a generous layer of sharp cheddar cheese on top.
- Sprinkle the cheese with a dash of paprika for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Cover the skillet again and continue cooking until the cheese is perfectly melted and gooey.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the piping hot Eggplant Skillet to a serving dish, garnishing it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on the side.
- Serve this tantalizing dish hot and watch as it disappears within minutes, leaving behind satisfied smiles and contented tummies.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 386.8
- Total Fat: 21.2g
- Saturated Fat: 10.7g
- Cholesterol: 103.4mg
- Sodium: 567.9mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 17.5g
- Dietary Fiber: 6.5g
- Sugar: 7.7g
- Protein: 32.5g
Final Thoughts:
With its rich flavors, hearty textures, and wholesome ingredients, this Eggplant Skillet recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish will impress with its simplicity and depth of flavor. So don your apron, grab your skillet, and embark on a culinary adventure that’s as satisfying to cook as it is to eat! 🍽️✨
