Eggplant and Goat Cheese Lasagna

Ingredients and Weight:

• Eggplant: 2 large (about 3 pounds)
• Extra virgin olive oil: 1/4 cup
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Ground beef: 1 pound
• Italian sausage: 1 pound
• Tomato sauce: 2 (28-ounce) cans
• Sugar: 1 tablespoon
• Italian seasoning: 2 teaspoons
• Salt and black pepper: to taste
• No-boil lasagna noodles: 12
• Goat cheese: 8 ounces, crumbled
• Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, grated
• Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated

Preparation Time:

• 20 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 1 hour 15 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (simple)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. Slice eggplant lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick slices. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 20 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage and cook until browned.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper (to taste). Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Spread a layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with 6 lasagna noodles, 6 eggplant slices, half of the goat cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
8. Let stand for 10 minutes before cutting into squares.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 520 per serving
• Fat: 25g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 55g

Dish Characteristics:

• Rich and flavorful
• Creamy and cheesy
• Hearty and satisfying
• Suitable for vegetarians by omitting the meat

User Comments:

• "This lasagna is a game-changer! The eggplant adds a unique and delicious twist."
• "I love the combination of goat cheese and mozzarella. It's so creamy and decadent."
• "This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a crowd-pleasing dinner party."
• "The no-boil noodles make this recipe a breeze to prepare."
• "I highly recommend trying this lasagna. It's a unique and unforgettable dish."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use a sharp knife to slice the eggplant thinly and evenly.
• Do not overcook the eggplant, or it will become mushy.
• If you do not have no-boil lasagna noodles, you can use regular noodles and boil them according to package directions.
• Allow the lasagna to stand before cutting to prevent it from falling apart.