Tender roasted eggplants filled with a savory spiced beef and herb mixture, smothered in rich tomato sauce — this comforting Mediterranean classic is hearty, wholesome, and full of bold flavors. Ideal as a main course or as part of a larger spread, it brings warmth and depth to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mediterranean Stuffed Eggplant is a satisfying fusion of soft roasted eggplant, aromatic spices, and a robust tomato sauce. It’s a complete meal packed with protein and vegetables, offering a balance of comfort and nutrition. With its deep flavor profile and attractive presentation, this dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

eggplants
olive oil
salt and pepper

For the Filling:
ground beef
small onion, finely chopped
garlic, minced
parsley, chopped
ground cinnamon
ground allspice
smoked paprika
salt and black pepper

For the Tomato Sauce:
tomato puree
tomato paste
sugar
dried oregano
salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the eggplants lengthwise and score the flesh in a crisscross pattern. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place in a baking dish and roast for 20–25 minutes until softened.
2. While the eggplants roast, heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef until browned.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
4. Stir in parsley, cinnamon, allspice, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1–2 more minutes, then remove from heat.
5. In a saucepan, combine tomato puree, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, and salt. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Once eggplants are roasted, carefully scoop out some of the flesh to create a cavity for filling.
7. Fill each eggplant half generously with the spiced beef mixture.
8. Pour the tomato sauce over and around the stuffed eggplants in the baking dish.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbling and slightly browned.
10. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: Serves 5
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes (includes roasting and baking)
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Lamb Stuffing: Substitute ground beef with ground lamb for a more traditional and deeper flavor.
• Cheesy Topping: Add shredded mozzarella or crumbled feta on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with lentils or chickpeas, and include diced roasted vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
• Spiced Rice Addition: Mix cooked rice into the beef filling for added volume and texture.
• Eggplant Boats: Keep more of the eggplant flesh in place and lightly mash it with the filling for a more integrated texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes or in a microwave until thoroughly heated. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the eggplants and prepare the filling and sauce a day in advance. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.

What kind of eggplants work best?

Small to medium eggplants are ideal as they roast evenly and are easier to portion individually.

Can I freeze Mediterranean stuffed eggplants?

Yes, the assembled and baked dish freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the beef mixture for extra heat.

Is there a substitute for tomato paste?

You can use a bit more tomato puree and simmer longer to thicken, or add a tablespoon of ketchup in a pinch.

Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of puree?

Yes, but blend them for a smoother sauce or leave them as-is for a chunkier texture.

How do I prevent the eggplants from becoming too soft?

Avoid over-roasting in the first step and handle them gently when scooping out the centers.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with rice pilaf, couscous, or warm flatbread for a complete meal.

Can I omit the cinnamon and allspice?

You can, but they add essential warmth and depth to the flavor. Consider replacing them with a mild spice blend if preferred.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

The recipe is naturally dairy-free unless you choose to add cheese. Just skip any cheese garnish to keep it dairy-free.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Stuffed Eggplant with Spiced Beef & Tomato Sauce is a richly flavored, nourishing dish that brings together classic ingredients and comforting textures. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as part of a larger spread, it’s sure to impress with its bold flavors and elegant presentation. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining, this recipe is both versatile and deeply satisfying.

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