Name: Eggplant Parmesan
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 large Eggplants ((sliced into ½" rounds)); 1 teaspoon Salt ((or to taste)); 1 cup All-purpose flour; 3 large Eggs ((beaten)); 2 cups Italian breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning; 1¼ cup Parmesan cheese ((shredded)); 1 teaspoon Pepper ((or to taste)); ¼ cup Olive oil; 4 cups Marinara sauce; 4 cups Mozzarella cheese ((shredded)); 2 tablespoons Parsley ((chopped, or basil))

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The first time I made Eggplant Parmesan, it was a crisp autumn evening, and the aroma of warm, cheesy goodness filled my kitchen. I had invited a few friends over for dinner, wanting to impress them with something comforting and delicious. As I layered the rich marinara over the crispy eggplant rounds, I felt a sense of excitement. This dish has a way of bringing people together, and its rustic charm never fails to evoke smiles. Each bite of Eggplant Parmesan is a delightful experience, with the perfect balance of flavors and textures. I love how the tender eggplant absorbs the savory sauce while the cheese melts beautifully on top. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, this recipe is a classic that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 15 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
20 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
9×13-inch Casserole Dish, Aluminum Baking Sheet

The Magic of This Eggplant Parmesan

Comforting and Hearty

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Eggplant Parmesan. The layers of crispy, golden-browned eggplant combined with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s perfect for those chilly fall nights when you need a satisfying meal to bring a smile to your face.

Vegetarian Delight

For those looking to enjoy a hearty meal without meat, Eggplant Parmesan is a fantastic option. It offers a wealth of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying choice even for those who typically prefer meat-based dishes. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to include more vegetables in your diet without sacrificing taste.

Crowd-Pleaser

This recipe is a guaranteed hit at gatherings. Whether it’s a family dinner or a friendly get-together, serving Eggplant Parmesan is sure to impress your guests. The layers of gooey cheese and flavorful sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds, and you’ll be the star of the evening!

Make-Ahead Friendly

One of the best features of Eggplant Parmesan is its make-ahead capability. You can prepare everything in advance and assemble it just before you’re ready to bake. This is especially convenient for busy weeknights or when hosting guests, allowing you to enjoy time with friends and family instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Classic Italian Flavors

With its roots in Italian cuisine, Eggplant Parmesan showcases the delicious ingredients that define this celebrated culinary tradition. The combination of mozzarella, parmesan, and marinara sauce creates a symphony of flavors that transports you straight to Italy with every bite.

Flexible and Versatile

This recipe allows for plenty of customization. You can swap out the cheese, add extra herbs, or even mix in some vegetables. Whether you want to experiment with different cheese types or play around with spices, Eggplant Parmesan is a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Ingredients for Eggplant Parmesan

The ingredients for Eggplant Parmesan come together to create a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role, ensuring that every bite is satisfying. The star of the dish, eggplant, provides a hearty base, while marinara sauce adds a rich, tangy component. The cheeses melt beautifully, creating a luscious topping that elevates the dish to comfort food status.

2 large eggplants (sliced into ½” rounds) – The main ingredient, eggplants are packed with flavor and form the foundation of this dish.
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste) – Used for drawing out moisture from the eggplant, enhancing its flavor.
1 cup all-purpose flour – For dredging the eggplant, giving it a crispy exterior when baked.
3 large eggs (beaten) – Acts as a binding agent in the dredging process, helping the breadcrumbs adhere.
2 cups Italian breadcrumbs – Provides the crunchy topping, adding texture and flavor to the dish.
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that infuses the dish with delicious Italian flavor.
1¼ cup parmesan cheese (shredded) – Adds a savory, salty element that enhances the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon pepper (or to taste) – For seasoning, adding a touch of heat to the dish.
¼ cup olive oil – Used for drizzling over the eggplant, helping it crisp up in the oven.
4 cups marinara sauce – The rich and tangy sauce that ties all the flavors together.
4 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded) – Melts beautifully on top, creating that gooey, cheesy layer.
2 tablespoons parsley (chopped, or basil) – A fresh herb garnish that brightens the dish.

Making This Eggplant Parmesan

Making Eggplant Parmesan is a rewarding experience as you layer each delicious component together. Follow these steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying this delightful dish right from your kitchen!

Prep the eggplants: Generously salt the eggplant rounds on both sides. This step is crucial as it helps to draw out moisture and bitterness from the eggplant. Let them sit on sheets of paper towel for 1 to 2 hours. Afterward, press the rounds dry with a paper towel to remove excess salt and moisture, preparing them for the next steps.
Ready the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F. While it’s heating, brush two sheet pans with 1 tablespoon of olive oil in each. This will help the eggplant get that lovely golden brown color.
Assemble the dredge: Grab 3 shallow bowls or plates. Add the flour to one, the eggs to the second, and in the last, combine the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, and ¼ cup of the parmesan cheese. Season each bowl with salt and pepper, mixing well. This assembly line will streamline the dredging process!
Dredge the eggplant: Take an eggplant round and dredge it in the flour, covering it completely. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated round on one of the prepared baking sheets and repeat this process with all the remaining rounds. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the prepared rounds to ensure they crisp up nicely in the oven.
Bake the eggplant rounds: Bake the rounds in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes or until they are golden brown. Once done, carefully remove them from the oven and reduce the heat to 375°F. This change in temperature will prepare the oven for the next baking step.
Assemble: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a 9×13″ baking dish. Lay half of the baked eggplant rounds in a single layer over the sauce. Top this layer with 1½ cups of marinara sauce, followed by 1 cup of mozzarella, and ½ cup of parmesan. Repeat the layering process with the remaining eggplant, sauce, and cheeses.
Bake: Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and browned. You’ll know it’s ready when the top layer is a beautiful golden color and everything is melty.
Garnish and serve: Once out of the oven, garnish your Eggplant Parmesan with fresh parsley or basil. Let it rest for about 20 minutes at room temperature before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to settle and makes slicing easier.

Things Worth Knowing

Salting the eggplant: Salting the eggplant helps to extract excess moisture and bitterness, ensuring a better flavor and texture in the final dish.
Layering technique: When assembling, layering the ingredients harmoniously will enhance the overall presentation and flavor of your Eggplant Parmesan.
Resting time: Letting the dish sit after baking allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve without losing shape.
Cooking time: Keep an eye on the cheese towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning. You want a nice golden color, not burnt!

Make It Your Own

Every cook has their own flair, and Eggplant Parmesan is no exception! Here are some tips to personalize this classic recipe:

Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before storing.
Freezing: You can freeze Eggplant Parmesan for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely, then wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread to round out your meal.
Variations: Consider adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added depth and flavor. You can also swap in different cheeses for a unique twist!
Spicing it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the layers for a spicy kick that will elevate the flavors even more.

What to Serve With Eggplant Parmesan

Your Eggplant Parmesan is sure to be a hit on its own, but here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience even more:

Fresh Salad: Serve it alongside a crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette. The freshness balances the richness of the dish perfectly.
Garlic Bread: A side of warm, toasted garlic bread is perfect for savoring the delicious marinara sauce. It’s a classic pairing that everyone loves!
Pasta: Consider serving it with a side of spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in olive oil and herbs. It complements the Eggplant Parmesan beautifully.
Wine Pairing: A light white wine or a fruity red, like Chianti, complements the Italian flavors well.
Seasonal Veggies: Roasted seasonal vegetables make a great side dish, adding color and nutrition to your plate.
Picnic or Potluck: This dish is perfect for gatherings! It travels well and can be served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics or potlucks.

FAQ

Absolutely! While traditional Eggplant Parmesan uses eggplant, you can experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower. Just make sure to slice them thinly and prepare them similarly, salting them to draw out moisture. Each variety will bring its unique flavor, and it can be a fun way to customize the dish to your taste.

To make Eggplant Parmesan gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Many brands offer excellent alternatives that maintain flavor and texture. This way, you can enjoy this comforting dish without worrying about gluten sensitivity!

The classic cheese choices for Eggplant Parmesan are mozzarella and parmesan. mozzarella gives that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while parmesan adds a rich, salty flavor. You can also mix in other cheeses like provolone or ricotta for added complexity. Feel free to experiment with your favorites to find the perfect combination!

Yes! Eggplant Parmesan is ideal for making ahead. You can prep the eggplant and assemble the dish in advance, refrigerating it until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to allow a bit more time in the oven since it will be going in cold. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests!

Conclusion

Eggplant Parmesan is a dish that captures the essence of comfort food with its warm layers of cheese and sauce. It’s not just about satisfying your hunger; it’s about bringing people together and creating memorable meals. I encourage you to try this recipe—you won’t regret it! Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this delightful dish is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds.