Ground Beef with Eggplant Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Dish

Bold flavors come alive with this irresistible ground beef and eggplant recipe. The combination of tender eggplant and perfectly seasoned beef creates a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to make.

Bursting with spices and rich textures, this dish works as a centerpiece for dinner or as part of a larger spread.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something cozy and homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair it with warm bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort.

Ground Beef with Eggplant Recipe

Ground beef with eggplant is a hearty and flavorful dish. It’s a simple recipe that combines tender eggplant and seasoned ground beef for a satisfying meal.

Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or even a fresh salad.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant (about 1 lb)
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Optional:

• Red chili flakes for a spicy kick
• Grated cheese for topping

 

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Cut the eggplant into cubes or thin slices. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and set aside for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onion until soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Eggplant

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Cook the eggplant pieces until golden brown and tender.

This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add the diced tomato and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.

Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or grated cheese if desired. Pair with rice, pasta, or enjoy as a standalone dish.

Top Tips

Choose Fresh Ingredients

Use fresh eggplants and high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.

Avoid Bitter Eggplant

Salting the eggplant removes bitterness and prevents sogginess during cooking.

Use a Nonstick Skillet

This helps avoid burning or sticking while cooking the eggplant.

Variations

Add More Vegetables

Include bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.

Make It Spicy

Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños to spice things up.

Swap the Protein

Use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.

Dairy-Free Option

Skip the cheese topping to keep it dairy-free.

Organic Eggplant

 

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g

Eggplant and ground beef together make a delicious and satisfying meal. The blend of spices and tomato sauce adds depth of flavor.

This recipe is simple yet versatile, making it a great addition to your meal plan. Try it today and enjoy a wholesome, homemade dish!