Baked Eggplant with Savory Meat Filling

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Eggplant**:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the center of the eggplants, leaving about a 1/4-inch border around the edges to form “boats.” Place the eggplant halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the eggplant halves are tender and slightly golden on the edges. While the eggplant is roasting, you can prepare the meat filling.

#### 2. **Make the Meat Filling**:
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they soften and become fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Add the ground meat of your choice and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 8–10 minutes.

Once the meat is fully cooked, stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, cinnamon (if using), and breadcrumbs. Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the filling to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

#### 3. **Stuff the Eggplant**:
Once the eggplant halves are tender, remove them from the oven. Carefully spoon the meat filling into the hollowed-out centers of each eggplant half, packing the filling in tightly. If you like, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the meat filling for added flavor.

#### 4. **Bake**:
Return the stuffed eggplant halves to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the filling is bubbly and the eggplant is fully cooked. If you’re using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it over the stuffed eggplants during the last 5 minutes of baking, allowing it to melt and become golden.

#### 5. **Serve and Enjoy**:
Once the eggplant is cooked and the cheese is melted, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the baked eggplant with savory meat filling as a main dish or alongside a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or parsley if desired.

### Why Baked Eggplant with Savory Meat Filling is a Great Dish:

– **Nutrient-Rich**: Eggplant is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a healthy addition to your diet. Combined with lean protein from the meat and flavorful herbs and spices, this dish becomes a balanced, satisfying meal.
– **Versatile**: This recipe can be adapted to suit your tastes. You can use different ground meats such as beef, turkey, lamb, or even a meat substitute like ground chicken or plant-based protein. You can also switch up the herbs and spices to match your preferred flavor profile.
– **Family-Friendly**: The combination of tender eggplant and savory meat filling is appealing to both adults and children. The richness of the meat filling inside the soft eggplant is sure to please even picky eaters.
– **Comforting**: Baked eggplant with savory meat filling has all the qualities of a cozy, home-cooked meal. The rich flavors, combined with the satisfying textures, make it perfect for colder months or anytime you crave comfort food.

### Variations and Tips:

– **Vegetarian Version**: For a vegetarian twist, you can swap the meat filling for a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, ricotta cheese, and breadcrumbs. This will give you a delicious, meat-free option without sacrificing flavor.
– **Add Cheese**: If you love cheese, feel free to add more mozzarella or even some crumbled feta cheese to the meat filling for extra richness and tanginess.
– **Spicy Kick**: If you enjoy spicy food, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat filling or drizzle some hot sauce over the stuffed eggplants before baking.
– **Make-Ahead Option**: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Simply stuff the eggplants and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re coming directly from the fridge.

### Serving Suggestions:

Baked Eggplant with Savory Meat Filling can be served as a standalone main course or paired with side dishes to create a complete meal:
– **Green Salad**: A simple side salad with fresh greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the stuffed eggplants.
– **Rice or Quinoa**: Serve the eggplant with a side of rice, quinoa, or couscous for a hearty, wholesome meal.
– **Roasted Vegetables**: Complement the dish with roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots, for extra flavor and nutrition.

### Final Thoughts:

Baked Eggplant with Savory Meat Filling is a wonderfully satisfying dish that brings together rich flavors, healthy ingredients, and comforting textures. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy eggplant or simply want to try something different for dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The combination of tender, roasted eggplant and a savory, hearty meat filling makes for a dish that’s both filling and flavorful. Give it a try, and you’ll soon be craving this deliciously comforting meal on a regular basis!