Classic Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting and satisfying dish, this Eggplant Parmesan is sure to hit the spot. With layers of tender eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a meal that brings everyone to the table. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is a classic that never goes out of style.

Not to mention, this Eggplant Parmesan is an excellent way to showcase the flavors of fresh ingredients. The eggplant is lightly breaded and baked to perfection, providing a delightful texture that pairs beautifully with the savory sauce and melted cheese.

The Allure of Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a beloved dish that combines comforting flavors with satisfying textures. Layers of golden-breaded eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and bubbling mozzarella create an inviting meal that draws everyone to the table.

This classic recipe shines a light on the harmony of fresh ingredients. The lightly breaded and baked eggplant provides a delightful crunch, perfectly complemented by the tangy sauce and gooey cheese. It’s a dish that is both hearty and fulfilling, catering to meat lovers and vegetarians alike.

Perfecting the Eggplant

Preparing eggplant is an essential step in achieving the ideal texture. Start by slicing the eggplants and sprinkling them with salt to draw out excess moisture. This process ensures that the eggplant doesn’t become overly watery during cooking.

After allowing the salted eggplant to rest, rinsing and patting it dry will enhance the final dish’s flavor, resulting in soft, creamy interiors and crispy exteriors. This technique is crucial for creating a well-balanced Eggplant Parmesan.

The Art of Breading

Breading the eggplant is where the magic begins. Setting up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs will streamline the process. Each slice should be coated in flour first, followed by egg, and finally, breadcrumbs.

This three-step method helps achieve a golden crust when baked. Opting for Italian-style breadcrumbs can introduce additional flavor, enriching the overall taste profile of the dish.

Baking to Perfection

Once the eggplant slices are breaded, it’s time to bake them until golden and crispy. Preheating the oven and arranging the breaded slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet allows for even cooking.

Drizzling the eggplant with olive oil before baking enhances the crispiness and adds a rich flavor. Flipping the slices halfway through ensures they are perfectly browned on both sides, contributing to the desired texture for your Eggplant Parmesan.

Layering for Flavor

Assembling the dish is where the flavors come together beautifully. Start with a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of your baking dish, followed by a layer of baked eggplant, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.

Repeating these layers creates a stunning visual and flavorful experience. Finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top will guarantee a golden, bubbling finish that is hard to resist.

Serving and Enjoying

Once baked, allowing the Eggplant Parmesan to cool slightly before slicing will help maintain its structure. Garnishing with fresh basil adds a touch of brightness and enhances the presentation.

Served hot, this classic dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The combination of textures and flavors makes each bite a delightful experience, sure to impress anyone at the table.

The Timeless Eggplant Parmesan

This Eggplant Parmesan recipe delivers a delicious balance of flavors and textures. The eggplant is soft and creamy on the inside, while the crispy breading adds a nice crunch. Paired with a tangy marinara sauce and topped with golden, bubbling cheese, each bite is a delightful experience.

It’s hearty enough to satisfy meat lovers while being a perfect vegetarian option, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
1/4 cup olive oil
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prep the Eggplant: Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
Bread the Eggplant: Set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dip each eggplant slice in flour, then in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
Bake the Eggplant: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Assemble the Dish: In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, add a layer of baked eggplant, followed by mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
Bake: Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.

Cook and Prep Times

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

Nutrition Information

Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 350kcal
Fat: 20g
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 30g