The Art of Ultimate Mediterranean Eggplant and Ground Beef Casserole Perfection

Perfect Eggplant Roasting Mastery

Master the technique of roasting eggplant to achieve tender texture without bitterness.

Ground Beef Seasoning Excellence

Learn the skill of browning and seasoning ground beef for maximum Mediterranean flavor.

Layering Technique Perfection

Perfect the method of creating even, stable layers for optimal texture and presentation.

Cheese Melting Mastery

Master the art of achieving perfectly melted, golden cheese topping without burning.

Mediterranean Flavor Balance

Learn optimal herb and seasoning combinations for authentic Mediterranean taste.

Mediterranean Casserole Mastery Secrets for Perfect Eggplant & Beef Combination

Eggplant Prep: Salt eggplant slices and let drain for 30 minutes to remove bitterness if desired.

Beef Quality: Use 80/20 ground beef for best flavor and texture in the casserole.

Layer Strategy: Allow each layer to cool slightly before adding the next for better structure.

Cheese Balance: Mix different cheeses for complex flavor - don't skip the Romano.

Resting Time: Let casserole rest after baking to set properly and prevent sliding.

Make Ahead: Can be assembled day ahead and refrigerated before final baking.

Mediterranean Baked Eggplant and Seasoned Ground Beef Casserole with Fresh Herbs

Name: Mediterranean Baked Eggplant and Seasoned Ground Beef Casserole with Fresh Herbs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: For the Perfect Eggplant:; 3 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; For the Seasoned Ground Beef:; 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend); 1 large onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; For the Tomato Base:; 28 oz can crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1/4 cup red wine; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; For the Herb Seasoning:; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 bay leaf; For the Creamy Layer:; 16 oz ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; For the Cheese Topping:; 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/2 cup Romano cheese, grated

The ultimate Mediterranean comfort casserole featuring tender roasted eggplant, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and aromatic herbs layered with rich tomato sauce and melted cheese. This hearty family-style masterpiece combines the earthy richness of eggplant with savory ground beef, creating an unforgettable casserole experience that elevates traditional Mediterranean flavors to extraordinary heights perfect for dinner, meal prep, or any time you crave the perfect balance of vegetables, protein, and comforting Mediterranean spices.

Prep Time

20 Minutes

Cook Time

45 Minutes

Total Time

65 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Perfect Eggplant:

3 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Seasoned Ground Beef:

2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)

1 large onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

For the Tomato Base:

28 oz can crushed tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1/4 cup red wine

2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

For the Herb Seasoning:

2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 bay leaf

For the Creamy Layer:

16 oz ricotta cheese

1 large egg

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

For the Cheese Topping:

2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1/2 cup Romano cheese, grated

For the Mediterranean Touches:

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

2 tablespoons pine nuts (optional)

Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

For the Flavor Enhancement:

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon sugar

Red pepper flakes to taste

For the Assembly:

Cooking spray for casserole dish

Aluminum foil

For Special Equipment:

Large baking sheets

9x13 inch casserole dish

Large skillet

Colander

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Slice eggplants into rounds and arrange on baking sheets in single layer.

Brush eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Roast eggplant for 20-25 minutes until tender and lightly golden.

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add ground beef, breaking it up with spoon, and brown thoroughly.

Drain excess fat and season beef mixture with salt and herbs.

Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and red wine.

Add bay leaf, oregano, thyme, and simmer for 15 minutes.

Remove bay leaf and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

In separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with egg and parsley.

Season ricotta mixture with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Reduce oven temperature to 375°F and spray casserole dish.

Layer half the roasted eggplant in bottom of prepared dish.

Spread half the ground beef mixture over eggplant layer.

Dollop half the ricotta mixture over beef and spread gently.

Repeat layers with remaining eggplant, beef, and ricotta.

Top with combined mozzarella, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses.

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes covered.

Remove foil and bake additional 15 minutes until bubbly.

Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Garnish with fresh basil and drizzle with olive oil.

Serve hot with crusty bread and green salad.

Mediterranean Baked Eggplant and Seasoned Ground Beef Casserole with Fresh Herbs

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Ultimate Mediterranean Eggplant and Ground Beef Casserole Perfection

Mediterranean Baked Eggplant and Seasoned Ground Beef Casserole with Fresh Herbs

Ingredients

Instructions