Delicious Eggplant Parmesan Recipe You Must Try

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that has won hearts around the world. This recipe features tender slices of eggplant coated in homemade garlic-herb breadcrumbs, layered with rich marinara sauce, and a blend of melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Whether you choose to pan-fry or bake the eggplant, this dish delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Let’s jump into this delicious journey!

Why You’ll Love This Eggplant Parmesan

This Eggplant Parmesan recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why it’s beloved:

It’s a perfect vegetarian eggplant dish that’s packed with flavor.
Rich in protein, making it a hearty option for dinner.
Customizable; try variations like vegan eggplant Parmesan alternatives.
Perfect for meal prep; store leftovers easily.
Simple ingredients blend into a fantastic dish, making it an easy eggplant Parmesan for beginners.
It serves beautifully as a baked eggplant casserole at family gatherings.
Authentic Italian flavors that anyone can appreciate.
Ideal for feeding a crowd or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients for Eggplant Parmesan

Gather these items:

2 medium to large eggplants
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 large eggs (or 4 smaller eggs)
1/4 cup olive oil (for fried eggplant method)
6 bread slices (for breadcrumbs)
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
2 teaspoons Italian herb blend
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (can use up to 2 to 2 1/2 cups if you prefer more sauce)
1 lb mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
1-2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped

How to Make Eggplant Parmesan Step-by-Step

Step 1: Remove the stem from the eggplants and slice them into 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick slices for even cooking.
Step 2: Arrange slices on a pan and sprinkle both sides with a pinch of coarse salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Then, pat the slices thoroughly dry with paper towels, wiping off the salt as well.
Step 3: Toast the bread slices until golden, then pulse in a food processor until crumb consistency. In a bowl, combine these homemade breadcrumbs with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, Italian herb blend, and shredded parmesan cheese. Alternatively, use 1 1/2 cups of store-bought breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Set up three bowls—one with flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with breadcrumb mixture. Coat each eggplant slice first with flour on both sides, then dip in the eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture pressing gently to adhere. Shake off any excess crumbs.
Step 5: Pan Frying: Heat 1-2 tablespoons olive oil at a time in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the breaded eggplant slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Repeat for all slices. Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brush a sheet pan lightly with 1-2 tablespoons olive oil. Arrange breaded eggplant slices on the pan and bake for 25 minutes until golden.
Step 6: Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a large casserole dish. Layer with fried or baked eggplant slices, mozzarella cheese, a spoonful of marinara, and shredded parmesan. Repeat to create a second layer of eggplant, mozzarella, marinara, and parmesan.
Step 7: Preheat the oven to 400°F and bake the assembled casserole uncovered for 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and browned.
Step 8: Top the baked eggplant parmesan with freshly chopped basil and oregano. Serve hot and enjoy this classic comfort dish!

Delicious Eggplant Parmesan Recipe You Must Try - Eggplant Parmesan - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Eggplant Parmesan

Keep these in mind:

Always salt the eggplant to remove excess moisture and bitterness.
For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers.
Experiment with different cheeses; the best cheese for eggplant Parmesan can vary based on taste.
If you want a lighter dish, bake instead of frying the eggplant slices.
Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking for easier slicing.

Best Ways to Serve Eggplant Parmesan

Here are some serving ideas:

Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the marinara sauce.
Top with extra fresh basil for added flavor, making it a delightful Aubergine Parmesan.

How to Store and Reheat Eggplant Parmesan

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This dish is perfect for meal prep and can easily last for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eggplant Parmesan

What is eggplant Parmesan?

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish made from layers of eggplant slices, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. It’s a comforting meal that’s loved by many.

Can I make Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the layers and assemble the dish a day in advance. Just refrigerate it and bake when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Eggplant Parmesan?

To avoid sogginess, ensure the eggplant is well salted and dried before cooking. Also, don’t skip the rest time after baking; it helps the layers set.

Variations of Eggplant Parmesan You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

Try a gluten-free eggplant Parmesan recipe by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Make a low-carb eggplant Parmesan by skipping the breadcrumbs altogether.
For a vegan alternative, use cashew cheese or nutritional yeast in place of dairy.
Experiment with different herbs such as thyme and rosemary for a unique twist.

Delicious Eggplant Parmesan Recipe You Must Try - Eggplant Parmesan - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato or Gingerbread Tiramisu. You can also explore Creamy Vegetable Soup for a comforting side dish.