Eggplant Casserole - (Melitzanes me kreas sti katsarola)

INGREDIENTS

• 1 large eggplant, cubed
• 1 4 oz can tomato sauce
• 1 lb. ground lamb or beef
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 tsp salt, divided
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 med red onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 2 slices bread, cubed

METHOD

Bring salted water to a boil in a large saucepan. Add the eggplant, cover, remove from heat and allow to stand while preparing the rest of the casserole. In a large skillet, brown the meat and add the onion, green pepper and mushrooms. Continue to saut until vegetables soften. Season with 1 tsp salt, sugar and pepper. Add bread, tomato sauce and cheese. Drain eggplant and add, mixing well. Place in 3 quart covered casserole. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Remove cover and bake at 375 for 15 minutes or until nicely brown.

Recipe from www.bitsykitchen.com