Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian-American comfort food featuring crispy, pan-fried eggplant slices layered with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheeses. Perfect for family dinners or a special vegetarian meal, this dish is a cheesy, satisfying delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy and Comforting: Layers of mozzarella and Parmesan bring a creamy, indulgent texture.
• Rich Flavor: Pan-fried eggplant and savory marinara make this dish irresistible.
• Perfect for Vegetarians: A hearty, meatless option that even carnivores will love.
• Customizable: Add fresh herbs, spices, or a different cheese blend to make it your own.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2″ thick slices
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt (DO NOT USE TABLE SALT)
• 1 ½ cup (180 g) Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup (118 ml) milk
• 4 tablespoons vegetable oil (for lightly pan-frying)
• 3 cups (735 g) marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups (224 g) whole milk mozzarella, shredded
• 1 cup (100 g) Parmesan cheese, shredded
• Handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Eggplant

1. Sprinkle kosher salt over the top side of your eggplant slices.
2. Place the slices on a wire rack over a baking sheet and let them sit for 45 minutes to 1 hour to draw out excess moisture.
3. Brush off excess salt with a damp paper towel once the liquid has been drawn out.

Step 2: Bread the Eggplant

1. Prepare two shallow plates: add breadcrumbs to one and whisk eggs and milk together in the other.
2. Dip each eggplant slice into the egg mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs.
3. Place breaded slices on a plate or baking sheet and repeat with all slices.

Step 3: Pan-Fry the Eggplant

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C).
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
3. Pan-fry the eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides. Place cooked slices on a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. In a large casserole dish, spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom.
2. Layer fried eggplant slices, dollop marinara sauce, and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
3. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake and Broil

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
2. For an extra crispy topping, broil for 5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve

• Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara or breadcrumbs for some heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the marinara is gluten-free.
• Extra Cheesy: Add a layer of ricotta cheese between the eggplant and marinara for added creaminess.
• Fresh Tomatoes: Use fresh, roasted tomato slices instead of marinara for a lighter dish.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

FAQs

1. Do I have to salt the eggplant?

Salting removes bitterness and excess moisture, but if your eggplant is very fresh, you can skip this step.

2. Can I bake the eggplant instead of frying?

Yes, brush the slices lightly with oil and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3. Can I use Japanese eggplants?

Yes, Japanese eggplants work well, though they are smaller and may require more slices.

4. What can I substitute for mozzarella?

Use provolone, fontina, or a vegan cheese alternative.

5. How do I prevent the dish from becoming soggy?

Ensure the eggplant is thoroughly salted and patted dry, and fry until crispy before layering.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the layers and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Bake just before serving.

7. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze in individual portions. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

8. What pairs well with Eggplant Parmesan?

Serve with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or spaghetti for a complete meal.

9. Can I use store-bought marinara?

Absolutely, though homemade marinara enhances the flavor.

10. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, use plant-based milk, egg substitutes, and vegan cheeses for a vegan-friendly version.

Conclusion

Eggplant Parmesan is a timeless vegetarian dish that’s comforting, satisfying, and packed with flavor. With its crispy eggplant slices, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, this recipe is a hit for family dinners or gatherings. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that’s as delicious as it is hearty!

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