Classic Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

This classic eggplant parmesan is a delicious Italian dish that layers breaded eggplant slices with marinara sauce and melted cheese. It's a satisfying vegetarian option that is both hearty and flavorful.

The recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in advance. You can serve it with pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Eggplant parmesan is a classic Italian dish that brings together layers of crispy breaded eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese.

This vegetarian delight is not only hearty but also packed with flavor, making it a favorite among many.

Its beautiful presentation, with golden-brown eggplant and bubbling cheese, makes it an appealing choice for gatherings or family dinners.

Preparation of Eggplant

The first step in creating this dish involves preparing the eggplant.

By sprinkling salt on the sliced eggplant and allowing it to sit, moisture is drawn out, enhancing the texture and flavor.

After rinsing and patting the slices dry, they are ready for the breading process.

Breading Process

Setting up a breading station is essential for achieving that perfect crispy coating.

With flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow dishes, each slice of eggplant is dipped in flour, followed by egg, and finally coated with breadcrumbs.

This method ensures an even and satisfying crunch when fried.

Frying the Eggplant

Frying the breaded eggplant slices is a crucial step that adds depth to the dish.

Using a large skillet, the slices are fried until they reach a golden-brown color, typically taking about 3-4 minutes per side.

Once fried, it's important to drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil, ensuring they remain crispy.

Assembling the Dish

With the eggplant ready, the assembly begins.

In a rustic baking dish, layers of marinara sauce, fried eggplant, and a mix of mozzarella and parmesan cheese are alternated.

This layering continues until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous topping of cheese that will melt beautifully in the oven.

Baking and Serving

The baking process is where the magic happens.

Covering the dish with foil and baking it allows the flavors to meld together, while removing the foil towards the end creates a bubbly, golden topping.

After a brief cooling period, garnishing with fresh basil adds a touch of color and freshness, making this dish not only delicious but visually stunning.

Easy Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

This eggplant parmesan features crispy breaded eggplant slices layered with rich marinara sauce and topped with mozzarella and parmesan cheese. The dish takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 4 people.

Ingredients

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplant: Sprinkle salt on the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
2. Set Up Breading Station: Place flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow dishes.
3. Bread the Eggplant: Dip each eggplant slice in flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Fry the Eggplant: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. Assemble the Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, then add a layer of fried eggplant, followed by mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
6. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

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