Delicious Eggplant Parmesan: 7 Steps to Perfection

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Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that has captured the hearts of food lovers around the world. This delightful recipe features tender slices of eggplant coated in homemade garlic-herb breadcrumbs, layered with rich marinara sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Whether you choose to pan-fry or bake the eggplant, the result is a comforting meal that pairs perfectly with your favorite side dishes. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Eggplant Parmesan!

Why You’ll Love This Eggplant Parmesan

This Eggplant Parmesan recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here are six reasons to love it:

Rich, savory flavors that satisfy any palate.
A vegetarian option that even meat lovers will enjoy.
Perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Can be made gluten-free with simple substitutions.
Uses easily accessible ingredients that you may already have at home.
Ideal for entertaining guests with a classic Italian dish.

Try this easy eggplant parmesan recipe that highlights the traditional Italian cuisine! You can also check out classic Italian pizza for a perfect pairing.

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 Perfect Eggplant Parmesan

Keep these in mind:

Make sure to salt the eggplant to draw out excess moisture for a better texture.
For a healthier alternative, consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs or skipping the frying step altogether.
Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or goat cheese for unique flavor profiles.

Best Ways to Serve Eggplant Parmesan

This dish pairs well with:

A side of garlic bread for that authentic Italian experience.
Fresh salad to balance the rich flavors of the eggplant and cheese.
Serve with a side of pasta for a complete meal.

How to Store and Reheat Eggplant Parmesan

Leftover Eggplant Parmesan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This dish is great for meal prep and can be enjoyed throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eggplant Parmesan

What’s the secret to perfect Eggplant Parmesan?

The key to perfect Eggplant Parmesan is salting the eggplant beforehand to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better texture and flavor. Ensure your oil is hot enough when frying for a crispy coating!

Can I make Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Eggplant Parmesan in advance. Assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Eggplant Parmesan?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure to pat the eggplant dry after salting, and don’t overload the casserole with too much sauce or cheese. This will ensure even cooking and a balanced dish.

Variations of Eggplant Parmesan You Can Try

Here are some creative twists:

Vegan Eggplant Parmesan: Use vegan cheese and flaxseed eggs for a plant-based alternative.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options.
Spicy Eggplant Parmesan: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs for an extra kick.