Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Eggplant

Name: Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Eggplant
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants; 500g ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Ideas

I absolutely love creating dishes that combine flavor and elegance, and ground beef and rice stuffed eggplant is one of my favorites. This recipe allows me to showcase the rich taste of beef paired with fragrant rice, all nestled in tender, roasted eggplant. Each bite bursts with savory goodness, making it perfect for a hearty meal. The best part? It’s not just delicious; it’s also an eye-catching centerpiece for any dinner table.

Created by

Lorna Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-02-08T04:25:36.933Z

When I first experimented with stuffed eggplants, I was amazed at how well the flavors meld together. The juice from the eggplant adds a depth that enhances the ground beef and rice filling. By roasting the eggplant beforehand, I allow it to soften and absorb all the delightful spices I use, creating a dish that’s not only satisfying but also full of character.

This stuffed eggplant has become a family favorite, especially during gatherings. I usually serve it with a side salad to balance the richness of the filling, and I love how versatile it is; you can easily swap in vegetables or different proteins to make it your own!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory and satisfying with a beautiful presentation
Nutrient-packed meal with a perfect balance of ingredients
Versatile recipe that allows for ingredient swaps and personalization

Perfecting the Eggplant Preparation

When preparing the eggplants, it's essential to scoop out the flesh without damaging the skin. Leaving about 1/2 inch ensures that the flesh can hold the weight of the filling without collapsing. As you scoop, remember to chop the removed eggplant flesh. It can later be added to your filling for extra flavor and moisture, making the dish even heartier. This will create a cohesive texture that enhances the overall dish.

Brushing the eggplant halves with olive oil before baking not only adds flavor but also helps achieve a beautiful caramelization during roasting. When they bake, watch for the skins to darken slightly and the edges to become tender. This step is crucial for achieving that delicate balance of texture—crispy on the outside while remaining soft enough to scoop out the hearty filling.

Crafting the Flavorful Filling

The combination of ground beef and fragrant spices like paprika and cumin creates a delicious depth of flavor. Using lean ground beef is preferable, as it allows the other ingredients' flavors to shine while preventing excessive greasiness. If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or a plant-based protein for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just be sure to season adequately since these may require a bit more seasoning to fully absorb that savory taste.

Sautéing the onions and garlic until translucent not only softens them but also releases their natural sugars, creating a rich and aromatic base for your filling. Make sure not to rush this step; around 5-7 minutes of cooking on medium heat should be adequate. Once you add the diced tomatoes, let the mixture simmer for a few minutes before combining it with the rice. This allows the flavors to meld and creates a juicy filling that complements the soft eggplant beautifully.

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants
500g ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant

Preheat the 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. Brush the eggplant halves with olive oil and arrange them cut side up in a baking dish.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Incorporate the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, paprika, cumin, and season with salt and pepper.

Stuff the Eggplant

Fill each eggplant half generously with the beef and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in. Place the stuffed eggplants in the oven.

Bake the Eggplant

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and the filling is heated through.

Serve

Garnish the stuffed eggplants with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding some cinnamon to the filling or topping with cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking for a bubbly finish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This stuffed eggplant recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the eggplant halves with the filling and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Just ensure you cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out. For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled eggplants. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking them directly.

If you do have leftovers, they reheat wonderfully. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This will help maintain the eggplant's tender texture without making it mushy.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

To elevate the presentation, serve the stuffed eggplants on a bed of sautéed greens like spinach or kale. This not only adds color but also boosts the nutritional value of the meal. Drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction or a yogurt sauce over the top for an added burst of flavor that complements the savory filling beautifully.

For a more Mediterranean flair, you can incorporate toppings like crumbled feta cheese or toasted pine nuts just before serving. These elements provide a nice contrast of texture and flavor, making the dish even more delightful. Additionally, serving with a side of crusty bread or a light salad can round out the meal perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives for a lighter option.

→ What can I serve with stuffed eggplant?

A simple side salad or some crusty bread works wonderfully to complement this dish.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can make it ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze stuffed eggplant?

Definitely! You can freeze them before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn.