Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious and healthier alternative to the classic fried version. This dish features layers of crispy breaded eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. With a few simple steps, you can create a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Eggplants: 2 medium, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- Salt: To sweat the eggplant slices
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated (mixed into breadcrumbs)
- Breadcrumbs: 2 cups Italian seasoned or add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to plain breadcrumbs
- Olive Oil: For brushing the baking sheets
- Eggs: 2, beaten
- For Layering:
- Marinara Sauce: 3 cups (homemade or store-bought)
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup grated
- Fresh Basil: A handful, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Eggplants
Slice and Sweat: Slice the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Lay them out in a single layer on paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Sprinkle salt over the slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This process, known as “sweating,” helps to draw out excess moisture and reduce any bitterness.
Rinse and Dry: After 30 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water to remove the salt. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels.
2. Bread the Eggplants
Prepare Breading Stations: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes:
- Dish 1: Place the beaten eggs.
- Dish 2: Mix the breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dish 3: Place additional flour if needed (optional for extra crispiness).
Coat the Eggplants: Dip each eggplant slice into the flour (if using), then into the beaten eggs, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the slices to ensure they adhere well.
Brush Baking Sheets: Brush a baking sheet with olive oil to prevent sticking and to help achieve a golden, crispy texture.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded eggplant slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake the Eggplants
Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the eggplant slices for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Remove from Oven: Once baked, remove the eggplant slices from the oven and set them aside.
4. Assemble the Eggplant Parmesan
Layer Ingredients: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place a layer of baked eggplant slices over the sauce.
Add More Sauce and Cheese: Spread an additional cup of marinara sauce over the eggplant slices. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce and a final sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Bake and Garnish
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled eggplant Parmesan for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
Garnish: Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil.
6. Serve
Serve: Cut the baked eggplant Parmesan into squares and serve. Enjoy it on its own, or with a side salad or pasta for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
Sweating the Eggplant: Don’t skip the sweating step as it helps to reduce bitterness and makes the eggplant slices less soggy.
Crispy Coating: Ensure the eggplant slices are thoroughly coated with the breadcrumb mixture for a crispy texture.
Layering: Don’t overload the layers; each layer should be thin to ensure even cooking and proper melting of the cheese.
Resting Time: Letting the dish rest after baking helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Customizing: Feel free to add other ingredients such as sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the layers for added flavor and nutrition.
Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that’s both comforting and healthier when baked instead of fried. By following these easy steps, you can create a delicious, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Enjoy the crispy eggplant layered with savory marinara and melted cheese, topped with fresh basil for a touch of flavor.