I have always wanted to try out cooking lasagna and since there are many versions of lasagna and we wanted to be healthy, my sister had this veggie lasagna which she was inspired to try out, I'm not the only cook in our family, though my sister will only cook when the inspiration and mood to cook comes along, lol! Anyway, this was the best lasagna I have ever tasted and I cannot wait to try it again. It is easy and everything is made from the scratch, from the marinara sauce to the minced beef. It's so perfect and filling even though we went for second helpings! Help! The best apart is that this lasagna is gluten free since we are using eggplant as the substitute for the pasta to layer the lasagna. As for the egg plant, you can bake it or pan fry, either way it'll be crispy and delicious.
Our star dish: Gluten-Free Roasted Eggplant Lasagna. This delightful recipe is a game-changer, offering a wholesome twist on the classic, ensuring everyone around your table can indulge in the rich, savory layers of goodness.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is a culinary haven for individuals seeking a gluten-free alternative without compromising on taste. Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply want to explore innovative ways to enjoy a beloved Italian classic, this gluten-free roasted eggplant lasagna is a winner.
Why It's Great
The brilliance of this dish lies in the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The roasted eggplant replaces traditional pasta sheets, bringing a smoky depth to each bite. Paired with preboiled minced beef, a melody of cheeses, and a robust homemade marinara sauce, this lasagna is a culinary masterpiece. It's a hearty, comforting dish that feels indulgent yet aligns with various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 Large Aubergine (Eggplant)
- 1 Kg Minced Beef (preboiled for convenience)
- Mozzarella Cheese
- Cheddar Cheese
- 1 Bell Pepper
- Marinara Sauce:
- 3 Tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, peeled and halved
- 2 Large Cloves Garlic
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
- Salt, to taste
Directions
Roasted Eggplant Layers
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Slice the aubergine into thin rounds.
Arrange the slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt.
Roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and tender.
Flavorful Minced Beef
In a pan, sauté the preboiled minced beef until browned.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Set aside for assembly.
Marinara Magic
In a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic and onions until softened.
Add diced tomatoes and oregano, simmer until the sauce thickens.
Season with salt to taste.
Assembling the Lasagna
In a baking dish, layer roasted eggplant, minced beef, marinara sauce, mozzarella, cheddar, and sliced bell pepper.
Repeat the layers until the dish is filled, finishing with a generous cheese topping.
Baking Bliss
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Kitchen Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Saucepan
- Pan for Sautéing
- Baking Dish
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow manage to resist finishing the entire lasagna in one go, fear not! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer preservation, consider freezing individual portions.
Tips and Variations
Veggie Delight: For a vegetarian twist, swap minced beef with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
Cheese Extravaganza: Experiment with different cheese varieties for a personalized flavor profile.
Time-Saving Hack: Use store-bought gluten-free marinara sauce if time is of the essence.
Food and Drink Pairings
Complement the richness of this lasagna with a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite red wine. The earthy notes of the eggplant and the savory beef will harmonize beautifully with the chosen wine.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the lasagna up to the baking stage, cover, and refrigerate. Pop it in the oven when you're ready to serve.
Q: Can I use other vegetables in the layers?
Certainly! Zucchini or thinly sliced sweet potatoes make excellent alternatives.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Indeed, swap dairy cheese with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.
METHOD
Add tomatoes, garlic and bell pepper in blender and blend
until smooth. Add onions to pan and fry until slightly browned. Add salt. Pour in the blended sauce and simmer until the liquid is dissolved and you have a thick sauce. Add the oregano spice and mix. Add in the cooked minced beef, cook 1 minute, turn off heat set aside to cool
Start layering the lasagna. Lay the aubergine on the bottom of a heavy casserole glass dish, add cheese
Add another layer of the aubergine/eggplant
Bake, uncovered at 350 degrees, for 40 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the top is crispy. 
Add the cooled minced beef mixture
Add a layer of the cheese
Cover completely with the cheese
Add some more cheese
Layer again the minced beef and level the top
Add the last layer of aubergine/eggplant and sprinkle generously with cheese
Serve immediately
Delicious healthy lasgna
Cover any left over and refrigerate, microwaves well the next day
Elevate your gluten-free culinary repertoire with this roasted eggplant lasagna. Share the joy of a hearty, flavorful meal with friends and family. Don't forget to spread the love – share this recipe and subscribe to the blog for more culinary adventures
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