If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer or side dish, these Baked Eggplant Parmesan Bites are a perfect choice. They combine the flavors of eggplant, tomatoes, and melted cheese into bite-sized pieces that are sure to please everyone. This recipe is not only tasty but also visually appealing, making it a great addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 4 medium tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray or a few tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Eggplant:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Start by slicing the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Lay them out on a baking sheet and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out the moisture. This step helps to remove any bitterness from the eggplant.
- After 30 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Bread the Eggplant:
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the flour. In the second dish, beat the eggs. In the third dish, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each eggplant slice into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, coat the eggplant slice with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Bake the Eggplant:
- Place the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray the tops with olive oil spray or lightly drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant slices are golden brown and crispy.
- Assemble the Bites:
- Remove the eggplant slices from the oven and top each slice with a round of tomato. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each tomato slice.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the eggplant bites from the oven. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Arrange the eggplant Parmesan bites on a serving platter. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves for an added touch of color and flavor.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Eggplant Parmesan Bites:
- Uniform Slices:
- Ensure the eggplant and tomato slices are uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking. This also makes the bites look more attractive when served.
- Crispy Coating:
- For an extra crispy coating, you can double dip the eggplant slices by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps. This creates a thicker crust that stays crispy even under the melted cheese.
- Alternative Cheeses:
- While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses can add a unique flavor to your bites.
- Make-Ahead Option:
- You can bread the eggplant slices ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This is a great time-saver if you’re preparing for a party or gathering.
- Sauce Pairing:
- Serve these bites with a side of marinara sauce or pesto for dipping. The additional sauce adds another layer of flavor and makes these bites even more irresistible.
Variations:
- Spicy Eggplant Parmesan Bites:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused Bites:
- Add fresh chopped herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- Vegan Option:
- Replace the eggs with a plant-based milk and cornstarch mixture, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Mini Eggplant Pizzas:
- Spread a little marinara sauce on the eggplant slices before topping with tomato and cheese for a mini pizza effect.
- Gluten-Free:
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Baked Eggplant Parmesan Bites are a delightful and versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. They are packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a new side dish, or just want to try something different, these eggplant bites are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the combination of crispy eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and melted cheese in every bite!
