Eggplant Parmesan

Classic Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious Italian dish made with layers of breaded and fried eggplant, marinara sauce, and cheese. Here’s how to make it step by step.

Eggplant Parmesan

Ingredients

For the Eggplant

• 2 medium to large eggplants
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
• 1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons Italian herb blend
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sauce and Toppings

• 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Fresh basil (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplant

• Slice the Eggplant: Cut the eggplants into 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick slices.
• Salt the Eggplant: Sprinkle the slices with coarse salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This process helps draw out excess moisture.
• Pat Dry: After 10 minutes, pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and salt.

2. Bread the Eggplant

• Set Up Breading Station: In three separate bowls, place flour, whisked eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
• Coat the Eggplant: Dip each slice first in flour, then in the egg mixture, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.

3. Cook the Eggplant

You can choose one of two cooking methods:

Baking Method:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Arrange the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet brushed with olive oil.
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

Frying Method:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Fry the breaded eggplant slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
• Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

4. Assemble the Dish

• In a large baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
• Place a layer of fried or baked eggplant slices over the sauce.
• Top with mozzarella cheese and another layer of marinara sauce.
• Repeat layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella on top.

5. Bake

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake for about 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden top, you can broil it for a few minutes at the end.

6. Serve

• Let it cool for about 15 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Tips

• You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it in the oven.
• Feel free to add other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or spinach between layers for added flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Eggplant Parmesan!