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; 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup tomato sauce; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Family Comforts

I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Eggplant; it’s one of those comforting recipes that never fails to impress. The way the tender eggplant absorbs the savory flavors of the beef and rice filling is simply irresistible. I find that baking them gives the eggplant a wonderful texture while keeping everything deliciously moist. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate more veggies into our meals, making it a win-win situation in my kitchen. Trust me, you'll want to add this recipe to your weekly rotation!

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:49:35.896Z

When I first tried Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Eggplant, I was immediately drawn to how wholesome yet indulgent the dish felt. I experimented with spices, and found that a blend of cumin and paprika really elevates the flavors. Using cooked rice not only stretches the ingredients but also adds a lovely texture that pairs beautifully with the tender eggplant.

After baking, the aroma fills the kitchen and makes it hard for my family to resist. I recommend sprinkling some fresh parsley on top before serving; it adds a burst of color and flavor that is simply delightful!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory ground beef infused with spices that tantalize your taste buds
Tender eggplant that perfectly complements the hearty filling
A complete meal packed with flavor, nutrients, and vibrant colors

The Role of Eggplant

Eggplant, with its unique texture and ability to absorb flavors, is the star of this dish. It provides a soft yet firm contrast to the hearty beef and rice filling. When you scoop out the flesh, be careful not to remove too much—leaving about a quarter-inch border helps maintain structure during baking. The cooking process also transforms the eggplant, softening it and allowing it to meld beautifully with the savory filling, enhancing each bite.

Selecting the right eggplant is crucial for this recipe. Choose medium-sized, firm eggplants with smooth, shiny skin. Avoid any with visible blemishes or soft spots, as they are likely past their prime. If you happen to find bitter eggplants, you can sprinkle salt on the cut halves and let them sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing. This process draws out moisture and bitterness, making the eggplant even more enjoyable in your dish.

Perfecting the Filling

The filling is where all the magic happens! Using ground beef creates a rich, hearty flavor that partners perfectly with the mild taste of eggplant. While ground beef is traditional, you can easily swap it for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version. Just be mindful of cooking times—leaner meats may need less cooking to avoid dryness.

Seasoning is key in elevating your filling. The combination of cumin and paprika offers a warm, earthy dimension, but feel free to get creative! Adding herbs like oregano or fresh parsley can brighten the flavor, while a dash of red pepper flakes will bring some heat. It's always a good idea to taste your filling before stuffing, ensuring all the flavors are balanced and to your liking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

For the Stuffed Eggplant

2 medium eggplants
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup tomato sauce
Olive oil for drizzling

Ensure to have everything measured and ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your stuffed eggplant:

Prepare the Eggplants

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a small border. Chop the scooped-out eggplant and set it aside.

Make the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Mix in the chopped eggplant, cooked rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.

Stuff the Eggplants

Spoon the beef and rice mixture into the hollowed eggplant halves. Place them in a baking dish and pour tomato sauce over the top, drizzling with olive oil.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the eggplant is tender and the top is slightly golden.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of your stuffed eggplants!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding grated cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking. You can also vary the recipe by using ground turkey or adding different vegetables to the filling.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15 minutes. This method helps maintain the texture of the eggplant and filling compared to using a microwave, which can make them soggy.

You can also freeze stuffed eggplants before baking. Just assemble them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to cook, bake directly from the freezer—just increase the baking time by 20-30 minutes, checking for tenderness, until the eggplant is soft and the filling is heated through.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or a side of crusty bread that can soak up any extra tomato sauce. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a quinoa or couscous salad with fresh veggies and a lemon vinaigrette—all these elements create a delightful contrast to the savory stuffed eggplants.

For a festive twist, you might consider topping your baked eggplants with crumbled feta or a dollop of yogurt before serving. These toppings add a creamy texture and tang that elevate the dish into something truly special. If you're feeling adventurous, try garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to add vibrant color and fresh flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed eggplants a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you're ready to enjoy!

→ Is it possible to freeze the stuffed eggplants?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked stuffed eggplants. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

A fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables complements the stuffed eggplant perfectly.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a mix of your favorite vegetables and beans for a delicious vegetarian version.