Description
Eggplant Parmesan is a comforting Italian classic that brings together layers of breaded eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. This vegetarian delight is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, offering both flavor and nostalgia with every bite. Easy to prepare, it transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming dish that will impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium eggplants (about 1.5 lbs), sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for frying)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sprinkle salt over the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the salted eggplants under cold water and pat dry.
- Set up three bowls with seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan. Coat each eggplant slice in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry each slice until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side) and drain on paper towels.
- In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, fried eggplants, more sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil until all ingredients are used.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg