Cheesy Eggplant Casserole Recipe

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Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 eggplant, peeled and diced
• 1 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 cup dry bread stuffing mix
• 1 clove garlic, crushed
• 2 tablespoons finely diced onion
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).
2. Place the diced eggplant in a microwave-safe dish and cook in the microwave for about 5 minutes, stirring once, until tender.
3. Transfer the cooked eggplant into a 9-inch square baking dish.
4. Mix in cup of shredded Cheddar cheese, bread stuffing mix, crushed garlic, diced onion, and the lightly beaten egg.
5. Season the mixture with dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then stir everything together.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
7. After 15 minutes, top with the remaining Cheddar cheese and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	413
Total Fat	17g (22% DV)
Saturated Fat	10g (49% DV)
Cholesterol	92mg (31% DV)
Sodium	1078mg (47% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	46g (17% DV)
Dietary Fiber	6g (20% DV)
Total Sugars	7g
Protein	19g (38% DV)
Vitamin C	3mg (4% DV)
Calcium	379mg (29% DV)
Iron	3mg (16% DV)
Potassium	461mg (10% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Introduction: Eggplant casseroles are a delightful way to enjoy this versatile vegetable, and the Cheesy Eggplant Casserole takes it to a new level with rich, melted cheese, a crunchy stuffing base, and the savory taste of Italian seasonings. This comforting dish can be served as a side or a main course, offering a satisfying balance of flavors.

History and Origins

Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a staple ingredient in many cultures, particularly in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. The Cheesy Eggplant Casserole, however, is more of a modern American creation, reflecting the country's love for hearty, cheesy casseroles. The combination of eggplant, breadcrumbs, and cheese can be traced back to similar dishes in the southern United States, where vegetables like eggplant and zucchini are often prepared in casseroles. This dish incorporates Italian seasoning and a bread stuffing mix, which makes it both a fusion of Italian and American culinary traditions.

Regional Variations

The Cheesy Eggplant Casserole can be found in many homes across the United States, but its popularity is particularly strong in regions where eggplant is commonly grown, such as the South. In some areas, variations might include adding ground meat or seafood for extra flavor, while others may use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, depending on whats available. In Mediterranean countries, eggplant dishes are often paired with ingredients like tomatoes and olive oil, but the cheesy casserole version remains an American twist on the traditional eggplant bake.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Although there are many eggplant-based dishes, such as eggplant Parmesan and moussaka, the Cheesy Eggplant Casserole stands out due to its use of bread stuffing mix and the absence of tomatoes or bchamel sauce. Unlike eggplant Parmesan, which is breaded and fried, this casserole is much lighter and simpler to prepare. Moussaka, a popular Greek dish, uses a rich ground meat sauce and often a bchamel topping, making it a more complex and heavier dish compared to the Cheesy Eggplant Casseroles simpler, cheesy, and breaded profile.

Where It's Typically Served

The Cheesy Eggplant Casserole is typically served in American households as a side dish alongside grilled meats or pasta. It can also be enjoyed as a main course for those following vegetarian or lighter diets. Its a popular choice for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday meals, especially in regions where eggplant is in season. Additionally, this dish is often found in casual restaurants that specialize in comfort food or Southern cuisine.

Interesting Facts

1. Eggplants are actually a fruit, not a vegetable. They belong to the nightshade family, which includes tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers.
2. The name "eggplant" comes from the shape and size of early varieties, which were small, white, and oval-shaped like eggs.
3. Eggplant is rich in antioxidants, particularly nasunin, which has been linked to various health benefits, including improving heart health and protecting cells from damage.
4. In ancient Greece and Rome, eggplants were thought to have aphrodisiac properties, earning them the nickname "love apple."

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