
This comforting Eggplant Casserole blends tender eggplant with sautéed onion, savory cheddar and parmesan cheeses, and a subtle touch of Tabasco for warmth. Likely hailing from mid-century American kitchens, it embodies the rise of creamy, cheese-forward vegetable bakes popular in community cookbooks and church suppers. With a custardy egg base and buttery topping, it's a filling, budget-friendly dish that's perfect for potlucks or weeknight dinners alike.
Ingredients
- 1 eggplant (medium )
- 1/2 cup onion (chopped )
- 1 tbsp margarine (or butter)
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded )
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 dash Tabasco
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese (grated )
- Paprika (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
- Peel and cut eggplant into pieces.
- Cook in salted water until tender.
- Drain thoroughly.
Step 2: Sauté Onion
- In a small skillet, sauté chopped onion in margarine until soft.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
- Combine cooked eggplant, sautéed onion, cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, salt, and Tabasco in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly.
Step 4: Assemble Casserole
- Transfer mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle top with grated Parmesan cheese and a dusting of paprika.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips
- Add sautéed onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella or a blend of cheeses.
- Stir in a pinch of oregano or basil for an Italian twist.
- Add cooked ground beef or turkey for a protein boost.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish.
- Substitute low-fat mayonnaise to lighten the dish.
- Stir in a handful of fresh parsley before baking.
- Replace eggplant with zucchini for a variation.
- Make ahead: assemble, refrigerate, and bake the next day.
Nutrition
Calories: 162kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 9gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 99mgSodium: 244mgPotassium: 345mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 433IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 159mgIron: 1mg
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