Delicious Eggplant Parmesan: 7 Steps to Perfect Comfort Food

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that beautifully combines layers of tender eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and a delightful blend of cheeses. This authentic recipe features homemade garlic-herb breadcrumbs, adding a delicious crunch to each bite. With its warm, comforting essence, Eggplant Parmesan is perfect for a hearty dinner that can satisfy both vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Let’s explore how to make this mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Eggplant Parmesan

There are countless reasons to adore this Eggplant Parmesan. For starters, it’s a vegetarian eggplant dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The rich marinara sauce pairs perfectly with the creamy mozzarella and tangy Parmesan, making each bite a delight. This dish is versatile, allowing you to choose between a crispy fried or a healthier baked option. Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this classic Eggplant Parmesan recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients for Eggplant Parmesan

Gather these items:

2 medium to large eggplants
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 large eggs (or 4 smaller eggs)
1/4 cup olive oil (for fried eggplant method)
6 bread slices (for breadcrumbs)
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
2 teaspoons Italian herb blend
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (can use up to 2 to 2 1/2 cups if you prefer more sauce)
1 lb mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
1-2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped

How to Make Eggplant Parmesan Step-by-Step

Step 1: Remove the stem from the eggplants and slice them into 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick slices for even cooking.
Step 2: Arrange slices on a pan and sprinkle both sides with a pinch of coarse salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Then, pat the slices thoroughly dry with paper towels, wiping off the salt as well.
Step 3: Toast the bread slices until golden, then pulse in a food processor until crumb consistency. In a bowl, combine these homemade breadcrumbs with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, Italian herb blend, and shredded parmesan cheese. Alternatively, use 1 1/2 cups of store-bought breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Set up three bowls—one with flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with breadcrumb mixture. Coat each eggplant slice first with flour on both sides, then dip in the eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture pressing gently to adhere. Shake off any excess crumbs.
Step 5: Pan Frying: Heat 1-2 tablespoons olive oil at a time in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the breaded eggplant slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Repeat for all slices. Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brush a sheet pan lightly with 1-2 tablespoons olive oil. Arrange breaded eggplant slices on the pan and bake for 25 minutes until golden.
Step 6: Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a large casserole dish. Layer with fried or baked eggplant slices, mozzarella cheese, a spoonful of marinara, and shredded parmesan. Repeat to create a second layer of eggplant, mozzarella, marinara, and parmesan.
Step 7: Preheat the oven to 400°F and bake the assembled casserole uncovered for 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and browned.
Step 8: Top the baked eggplant parmesan with freshly chopped basil and oregano. Serve hot and enjoy this classic comfort dish!

Pro Tips for the Best Eggplant Parmesan

Keep these in mind:

This recipe allows for variations in cooking methods: pan-frying or baking.
Feel free to adjust the amount of marinara sauce based on your preference.
Using fresh herbs enhances the flavor of the dish.
For a vegan eggplant parmesan recipe, substitute cheese with a plant-based alternative!
If you’re gluten-free, consider using gluten-free breadcrumbs for a suitable option.

Delicious Eggplant Parmesan: 7 Steps to Perfect Comfort Food - Eggplant Parmesan - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Eggplant Parmesan

Pair your delicious Eggplant Parmesan with a fresh side salad for a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread can also complement this dish perfectly, adding a crunchy texture. If you’re looking for eggplant parmesan serving suggestions, try serving it with a side of pasta tossed in olive oil and fresh herbs, giving your meal an Italian flair!

How to Store and Reheat Eggplant Parmesan

To store leftover Eggplant Parmesan, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This allows the cheese to melt and the crust to regain its crispy texture. Meal prep is also easy with this dish, making it a go-to for busy weeks!

Frequently Asked Questions About Eggplant Parmesan

What’s the secret to perfect Eggplant Parmesan?

The secret lies in salting the eggplant before cooking. This process draws out excess moisture and bitterness, resulting in a more flavorful and perfectly textured dish.

Can I make Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the Eggplant Parmesan a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve, ensuring it’s hot and bubbly for your guests.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Eggplant Parmesan?

One common mistake is not salting the eggplant properly. Always remember to salt and let it sit before rinsing to draw out bitterness. Also, ensure your marinara sauce is flavorful for the best results!

Variations of Eggplant Parmesan You Can Try

There are many delightful variations of this recipe. For a traditional Italian eggplant parmesan, use homemade marinara sauce. For a twist, add layers of spinach or mushrooms for a creamy eggplant parmesan variation. If you want a lighter version, try grilling the eggplant slices instead of frying, or make a gluten-free eggplant parmesan using gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Delicious Eggplant Parmesan: 7 Steps to Perfect Comfort Food - Eggplant Parmesan - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs or Creamy Italian Meatball Soup. If you’re interested in learning more about the health benefits of eggplant, visit Healthline for detailed information.