Description
🍆✨ Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of Classic Eggplant Parmesan—crispy, golden-brown eggplant layered with luscious marinara, gooey mozzarella, and savory Parmesan, baked to perfection! 🧀🍅
🔥🍽 A timeless Italian favorite that’s both satisfying and wholesome—perfect for a cozy dinner, meal prepping, or sharing with loved ones, and it tastes even better the next day! ❤️👌
Ingredients
Eggplant (2 large)
Salt (for sweating the eggplant)
All-purpose flour (for dredging)
Eggs (2, beaten)
Breadcrumbs (2 cups)
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Marinara sauce (3 cups)
Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded)
Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated)
Fresh basil (handful, chopped)
Black pepper (to taste)
Olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
1. Slice the eggplant into even rounds and sprinkle with salt to remove bitterness.
2. Let the salted eggplant sit for about 30 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. Prepare a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs.
4. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
5. Heat oil in a pan and fry the breaded eggplant slices until golden and crispy.
6. Drain fried eggplant on paper towels to remove excess oil.
7. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
9. Layer fried eggplant slices over the sauce.
10. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the eggplant.
11. Add fresh basil leaves for flavor.
12. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
13. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
14. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
15. Let the Eggplant Parmesan rest for a few minutes before serving.
16. Serve hot, optionally with pasta or bread on the side.
17. Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat for even better flavor the next day.
Notes
Salt the eggplant slices before cooking to remove bitterness and improve texture.
Use hot oil and a proper breading technique to achieve a crispy, golden crust on the eggplant.
Assemble the dish ahead of time and bake just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italy