Eggplant Parmesan

Discover the ultimate Eggplant Parmesan recipe! Crispy breaded eggplant layered with rich marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese, baked to perfection. Whether you’re frying or baking, this classic Italian dish is perfect for family dinners, holidays, or meal prep. Learn tips for keeping the eggplant crispy, variations to suit any diet, and how to make this dish ahead of time. Perfectly paired with pasta, salad, or garlic bread for an unforgettable meal. Try this easy Eggplant Parmesan recipe today for a delicious homemade dinner everyone will love!

Ingredients

For the Eggplant

• 3 medium ripe eggplants
• Salt

For the Breading

• 1 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 3 large eggs
• 1–2 splashes of milk (optional)
• 2 cups Italian breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

For Frying or Baking

• ½ cup vegetable oil

For Assembling

• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 8 oz. part-skim mozzarella, grated
• Basil (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplant

1. Slice the eggplants into ¼-inch rounds.
2. Sprinkle both sides of each slice with salt and layer them between paper towels.
3. Let the slices sit for an hour to remove excess moisture.

2. Bread the Eggplant

1. Set up a breading assembly line:

• Station 1: Mix flour, seasoned salt, and pepper on a large plate.
• Station 2: Whisk eggs in a medium bowl. Add milk for easier coating if desired.
• Station 3: Combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and ½ cup of Parmesan on another plate.

1. Dip each eggplant slice into the flour, ensuring full coverage. Then coat it in the egg mixture and finally in the breadcrumb mixture. Stack breaded slices on a plate as you go.

3. Cook the Eggplant

To Fry:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, ensuring enough oil to submerge slices halfway.
2. Fry 4 slices at a time, cooking until golden brown on each side. Adjust heat if necessary to prevent burning.
3. Place fried slices on a wire rack to cool and stay crisp.

To Bake (Alternative to Frying):

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Arrange breaded slices on a lightly greased baking sheet.
3. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cool on a wire rack to retain crispness.

Note: You can prepare the cooked slices ahead of time. Refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze after flash-freezing for an hour.

4. Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
3. Add a layer of breaded eggplant slices, followed by marinara sauce and grated mozzarella. Repeat the layers until all eggplant slices are used.
4. Finish with a topping of mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the dish is heated through.
6. Garnish with basil or parsley if desired and serve warm.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Flavor: The perfect combination of crispy eggplant, tangy marinara, and gooey cheese.
• Versatile Cooking Options: Fry or bake the eggplant to suit your preferences.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare components ahead of time for easier assembly.

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Tips

• Removing Moisture: Salting the eggplant removes bitterness and excess water, ensuring a firm texture.
• Keep it Crisp: Cool slices on a wire rack after cooking to avoid sogginess.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for high-quality mozzarella, marinara, and Parmesan for the best flavor.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for provolone or add a layer of ricotta for creaminess.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
• Low Carb: Substitute almond flour for breading.
• Vegetable Twist: Replace eggplant with zucchini for a different take.

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FAQs

Can I freeze eggplant Parmesan?
Yes! You can freeze cooked slices or the assembled dish. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to retain crispiness.

Can I skip the frying step?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier and less messy alternative.

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Serving

Serve hot as a main dish with:

• A fresh side salad
• Garlic bread or crusty baguette
• Pasta for a heartier meal

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Suggestions

• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Layer in roasted red peppers or sautéed spinach for added veggies.
• Pair with a robust red wine like Chianti for a classic Italian dining experience.