Ingredients

1 lb ground round
1 lb mild Italian sausage
1 can Italian-style tomatoes , undrained
1 can tomato puree
1 can tomato paste
3 1/2 cups water
1/4 cup sugar
2 garlic cloves , crushed
3 bay leaves
1 tablespoon fresh basil , chopped
1 teaspoon fresh basil , chopped
1 tablespoon fresh oregano , chopped
1 teaspoon fresh oregano , chopped
salt and pepper
1 large eggplant
1/2 cup olive oil
2 cups mozzarella cheese , grated
1 1/2 cups parmesan cheese or 1 1/2 cups romano cheese , grated
1 package mozzarella cheese , slices , cut into thin strips
Eggplant Parmigiana and Italian Meats Casserole is a classic Italian dish that is enjoyed in Italy and worldwide. This variation takes into consideration the low sugar levels while adding Italian Meats Casserole into the mix. The eggplants used are dried, salted, and baked before being placed in layers of the meat sauce, mozzarella cheese, and grated parmesan cheese. This dish makes for 8-10 servings and can be frozen too. It's great to share with families or can be reserved as a meal prep option.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven at 375°F.
2.Slice the eggplant covering it with salt and let it rest for 1 hour. This step helps to remove its bitterness.
3.Rinse the eggplant with cold water and pat dry.
4.Peel the casing of the sausage (if any) and crumble it.
5.On a different skillet, cook both the ground round and Italian sausage until they are well browned.
6.Drain the fat.
7.Add a can of undrained Italian style tomatoes, one can of tomato puree, one can of tomato paste, salt, sugar, pepper, garlic cloves, bay leaves, fresh basil, and fresh oregano.
8.Let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9.Spread 1/4 of the meat sauce on a baking pan and cover it with eggplant slices.
10.Repeat the layering process with the remaining sauce and eggplant. Finish off with layers of mozzarella cheese and grated parmesan cheese.
11.Bake in the oven for 30 minutes or until the cheese has melted to your liking.

PROS

This Eggplant Parmigiana and Italian Meats Casserole is low in sugar.

It is a good source of calcium, proteins, and vitamin C.

CONS

This dish is not recommended for individuals with high cholesterol levels.

It might require a lot of prep work, including salting and drying the eggplant slices before cooking.
The whole process might be time-consuming.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This Eggplant Parmigiana and Italian Meats Casserole is a great way to enjoy eggplants and the health benefits that come with it. Eggplants have a meaty texture and are a good source of fiber. They are also low in calories, high in antioxidants, and great in supporting cardiovascular health. Moreover, this recipe is rich in proteins and calcium, essential minerals for good muscle and bone health.

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