Creamy Eggplant Casserole (Patlıcan Musakka)

Patlıcan Musakka is a traditional Crimean Tatar dish that features layers of creamy eggplant, savory ground meat, and flavorful tomato sauce. This hearty casserole is a favorite in Crimean Tatar cuisine and is perfect for a comforting family meal.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Main Course Crimean Tatar Casserole Eggplant Ground Meat Creamy
Creamy Eggplant Casserole (Patlıcan Musakka)

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggplants, sliced
  • 1 lb ground beef or lamb
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for 15 minutes to release excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Add the chopped onion, tomatoes, and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes, then stir in the tomato sauce and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. In a separate pan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.
  5. In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the fried eggplant slices. Spread the meat mixture over the eggplant. Top with the remaining eggplant slices.
  6. In a bowl, mix the plain yogurt with the grated mozzarella cheese. Spread this mixture over the top layer of eggplant.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  8. Let the musakka cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
20g
Fat
18g

Supplies

Casserole dish Skillet Baking pan

Tools

Knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons

Serving suggestions

Serve the Patlıcan Musakka with a side of fresh salad and warm bread.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground meat with cooked lentils or chickpeas.

Cost

$15