Eggplant parmesan with meatballs is a classic Italian dish that combines two classic Italian flavors in one savory meal. Eggplant parmesan is a classic layered dish of fried eggplant slices and cheese, and meatballs are a classic Italian staple. Combining them together in one dish is a hearty, flavorful meal that is sure to please the whole family.
To make eggplant parmesan with meatballs, you'll need a few simple ingredients. Eggplants, of course, are the star of the dish and should be sliced into thin rounds. You'll also need some cheese, preferably a strong-flavored cheese like Parmesan or ricotta. For the meatballs, you'll need ground beef, pork, or turkey, as well as some breadcrumbs, garlic, and onion.
To begin the dish, preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your eggplant slices by lightly coating them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, until lightly browned.
Meanwhile, prepare the meatballs by combining the ground meat, breadcrumbs, garlic, onion, and a little salt and pepper. Form the mixture into small balls and arrange them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
Once the eggplant and meatballs are cooked, it's time to assemble the dish. Grease the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish with a little olive oil. Layer the eggplant slices on the bottom of the dish, followed by the cooked meatballs, and then the cheese. Repeat the layers until the dish is full.
Once the dish is assembled, pour a mixture of tomato sauce and water over the top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the eggplant is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
When the eggplant parmesan with meatballs is done, it's time to serve. Serve it hot with a side of pasta, or a side salad. This dish is sure to be a hit with your family, and it's sure to become a regular favorite in your home. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of cheese should I use for eggplant parmesan?
For eggplant parmesan, it's best to use a strong-flavored cheese like Parmesan or ricotta. These types of cheese will give the dish a delicious, cheesy flavor.
How long should I bake the eggplant for?
For eggplant parmesan, you should bake the eggplant slices for about 10 minutes, or until lightly browned.
How long should I bake the meatballs for?
For eggplant parmesan with meatballs, you should bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
How long should I bake the eggplant parmesan for?
Once the eggplant parmesan with meatballs is assembled, you should bake it for about 30 minutes, or until the eggplant is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
What other ingredients can I add to eggplant parmesan?
You can add any other ingredients you'd like to eggplant parmesan. Some popular additions include olives, mushrooms, peppers, and zucchini.
Can I make eggplant parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, you can make eggplant parmesan ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake it. When you're ready to bake it, simply cover it with foil and bake it as directed.
