Recipe: Mr. Food's Shortcut Moussaka (make ahead)

MR. FOOD'S SHORTCUT MOUSSAKA

2 pounds ground beef
1 small eggplant, peeled and diced (4 cups)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided use
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 1/2 cups spaghetti sauce
1 cup milk
2 eggs

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a large skillet, saute the ground beef over medium-high heat for 7-8 minutes, or until crumbly and only slightly pink; drain off any excess liquid.

Add the eggplant to the skillet and saute for 5-6 minutes, until the eggplant begins to soften.

Add the garlic, cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of the salt, and the pepper; mix well. Add the spaghetti sauce and cook for 4-5 more minutes, until hot.

Place the meat mixture in a 7x11-inch glass baking dish that has been coated with nonstick vegetable spray; smooth the top.

In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, then pour over the meat mixture.

Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the custard-like top is set.

TO MAKE AHEAD:
Mr. Food says: "If you want to make this a day or two before serving, go ahead. Just put together up to the point of placing the meat mixture into the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate until ready to finish the dish, as directed above."

Makes 6-8 servings
Source: Mr. Food