Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that layers breaded and fried eggplant slices with marinara sauce and cheese. This comforting recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

The preparation involves simple techniques, making it accessible for home cooks. You can serve it with pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Preparing the Eggplant

To achieve the perfect texture for Eggplant Parmesan, start by preparing the eggplant slices.

Sprinkle salt over the sliced eggplant and allow them to sit for about 30 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture and bitterness, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

After the resting period, rinse the slices and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture when frying.

Setting Up the Breading Station

Creating a breading station is essential for coating the eggplant slices evenly.

Use three separate bowls: one for all-purpose flour, another for beaten eggs, and the last for breadcrumbs.

This organized setup makes the breading process smoother and ensures that each slice is well-coated, which contributes to the overall crunchiness of the dish.

Frying the Eggplant

Once the eggplant is breaded, it’s time to fry.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices until they turn golden brown, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes on each side.

After frying, drain the slices on paper towels to remove excess oil, keeping them crispy and light.

Layering the Dish

Layering is where the magic happens in Eggplant Parmesan.

In a baking dish, start with a layer of marinara sauce, followed by a layer of the fried eggplant slices.

Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, and repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.

Finish with a generous layer of cheese on top to create that golden, bubbly finish when baked.

Baking to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

Once preheated, place your layered dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Watch for the cheese to become bubbly and golden, which indicates that your Eggplant Parmesan is ready to be enjoyed.

Serving Suggestions

After baking, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of spaghetti, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese, creating a delightful meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Delicious Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

This Eggplant Parmesan features crispy eggplant slices layered with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 4 people.

Ingredients

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplant: Sprinkle salt on the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
2. Set Up Breading Station: In three separate bowls, place flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
3. Bread the Eggplant: Dip each eggplant slice in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Fry the Eggplant: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. Layer the Dish: In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, followed by a layer of fried eggplant, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 30g