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Eggplant Beef Lasagna

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    Eggplant Beef Lasagna: A Hearty Italian Classic

    Indulge in the savory flavors of Eggplant Beef Lasagna, a timeless Italian dish that tantalizes the taste buds with layers of rich, cheesy goodness. In this recipe, we combine tender eggplant slices with seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta cheese, and tangy marinara sauce to create a mouthwatering masterpiece that will leave you craving for more.

    The origins of lasagna can be traced back to ancient Greece, where flat pasta sheets were layered with meat and sauce. Over time, the dish evolved, and in Italy, lasagna became a symbol of comfort and hospitality. The addition of eggplant to lasagna is a modern twist on the traditional recipe, adding depth and complexity to this beloved dish.

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    Ingredients:

    • For the Meat Sauce:
      • 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef
      • 1 onion, finely chopped
      • 2 cloves garlic, minced
      • 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
      • 1 teaspoon dried basil
      • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
      • Salt and pepper to taste
    • For the Eggplant Layers:
      • 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
      • Salt
    • For the Cheese Filling:
      • 15 ounces (425g) ricotta cheese
      • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
      • 1 egg
      • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
    • For the Assembly:
      • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
      • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

    Step-by-Step Instructions:

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    Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
    1. Salt the eggplant: Place the eggplant slices in a colander and sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then rinse and pat dry with paper towels.
    Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
    1. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
    2. Add the sauce and seasonings: Stir in the marinara sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, then remove from heat.
    Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Filling
    1. Combine the ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and chopped parsley. Mix until well combined.
    Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
    1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    2. Layer the ingredients: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Arrange a layer of eggplant slices on top, followed by a layer of the cheese filling. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top.
    3. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the lasagna.
    4. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
    5. Let it rest: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
    6. Garnish and serve: Garnish the lasagna with fresh basil leaves before serving.
    LSI Keywords
    • Beef lasagna with eggplant
    • Classic Italian lasagna recipe
    • Homemade lasagna with ground beef
    • Cheesy eggplant lasagna
    • Baked eggplant and beef lasagna

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