Beef and Eggplant Moussaka

Beef and eggplant moussaka layers roasted eggplant, cinnamon-scented meat sauce and a creamy Parmesan topping.

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 1 25

Resting 15

Total Time 2 10

Servings 6 equal portions

Calories 523 kcal

Ingredients

2 lb eggplant trimmed edible weight, 1/2-inch slices
2 tbsp olive oil
2 lb 93% lean ground beef raw
1 medium onion diced
3 cloves garlic minced
1 15-ounce can crushed tomatoes all contents
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
3/4 tsp table salt divided
1/2 tsp black pepper divided
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups 2% milk
2 oz Parmesan finely grated
2 large eggs beaten

Instructions

Heat oven to 425°F. Line two rimmed sheet pans with parchment. Brush eggplant with the oil on both sides and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Roast 20–25 minutes, turning once, until soft and lightly browned.
Meanwhile, brown beef and onion in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat for 10–12 minutes, breaking up clumps; ground beef must reach 160°F. Retain juices. Stir in garlic, tomato paste, oregano and cinnamon for 1 minute. Add tomatoes, 1/4 teaspoon salt and half the pepper. Simmer uncovered 12–15 minutes until thick, not soupy.
While the meat sauce simmers, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and simmer 4–5 minutes, stirring until thick enough to coat a spoon. Take off heat and stir in Parmesan, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and remaining pepper. Cool 5 minutes.
Whisk a few spoonfuls of warm sauce into the beaten eggs, then whisk that mixture back into the saucepan. This gentle warming helps prevent scrambled egg lumps. Lower oven to 375°F.
Layer half the eggplant, all beef sauce and remaining eggplant in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Spread the white sauce on top. Bake 35–40 minutes until bubbling, lightly golden and at least 165°F in the center. Rest 15 minutes before dividing into six equal portions.

Notes

One of 6 equal portions of the complete recipe. All listed sauces, sides and toppings are included; extra serving suggestions are separate. Nutrition is estimated and changes with brands and portions.