Ground Beef Stuffed Eggplant

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Eggplant
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants; 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the delicious flavors of ground beef stuffed into tender eggplant for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-25T18:34:14.013Z

This Ground Beef Stuffed Eggplant recipe combines the rich flavors of seasoned beef with the natural sweetness of eggplant, creating a dish that's both comforting and nutritious. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory beef filling perfectly complements the tender eggplant
A nutritious alternative to traditional stuffed dishes
Easy to prepare and great for leftovers

      

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

Ground beef and eggplant may seem like an unconventional pairing, but together they create a delightful harmony of flavors. The rich, savory beef filling seeps into the tender eggplant, ensuring every bite is packed with taste. The addition of aromatic spices like oregano and paprika enhances the overall profile, making this dish not only satisfying but also deeply flavorful.

Using fresh ingredients, such as diced tomatoes and bell peppers, adds a burst of freshness to the filling. This dish is perfect for those who love hearty meals without compromising on nutrition. The eggplant acts as a vessel, absorbing the flavors of the filling, while also providing fiber and essential vitamins.

A Healthy Twist on Comfort Food

Comfort food is often associated with heavy, calorie-laden dishes, but this Ground Beef Stuffed Eggplant offers a nutritious alternative. By using eggplants as the base, you reduce the carb count while increasing the intake of vitamins and antioxidants. Eggplants are low in calories and high in fiber, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Stuffed eggplants can easily satisfy cravings for traditional comfort food without the guilt. Plus, the dish is versatile; you can modify the filling with different proteins or add more vegetables to suit your taste. This recipe not only nourishes your body but also pleases your palate.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the standout features of this Ground Beef Stuffed Eggplant recipe is its meal prep potential. These stuffed eggplants can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making them an ideal option for busy weeknight dinners. Simply prepare and stuff the eggplants, wrap them in foil, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.

When you're ready to enjoy your meal, just pop them in the oven. The flavors only deepen as they sit, making leftovers even more delicious. This dish is perfect for batch cooking and can serve as a quick lunch option throughout the week, ensuring you have healthy meals at your fingertips.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Eggplant

2 medium eggplants
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil

Gather all ingredients before you begin to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplants

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/2 inch of the shell. Chop the scooped-out flesh and set aside.

Cook the Beef Filling

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned. Add the bell pepper, diced tomatoes, eggplant flesh, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Stuff the Eggplants

Fill each eggplant half with the beef mixture. If desired, top with shredded cheese. Place the stuffed eggplants in a baking dish and cover with foil.

Bake and Serve

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to brown the cheese. Serve warm and enjoy!

Let the dish cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Eggplants

To ensure your stuffed eggplants turn out perfectly, choose medium-sized eggplants that are firm and shiny. This indicates freshness and will help them hold their shape during cooking. When scooping out the flesh, be careful not to tear the skin, as it needs to hold the filling well.

If you prefer a slightly sweeter taste, consider roasting the eggplant halves before stuffing them. This method brings out the natural sugars in the eggplant, enhancing its flavor and adding depth to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Ground Beef Stuffed Eggplant can be served on its own as a satisfying main dish, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. The freshness of a green salad can help balance the richness of the beef filling, making for a complete meal.

For those who enjoy a little spice, serve with a side of hot sauce or a dollop of yogurt to cool the palate. This dish is also great for gatherings; consider making a larger batch to impress your guests at your next dinner party.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meats can be used.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed eggplants a day ahead and bake them just before serving.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed eggplants before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to serve.