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Classic Eggplant Parmesan

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Classic Eggplant Parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish featuring layers of crispy baked eggplant slices, rich marinara sauce, and melty cheese, baked until golden and bubbly. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for family dinners or a vegetarian main course.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium eggplants, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for sweating eggplant)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs or panko
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 3–4 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Olive oil or cooking spray (for baking)

Instructions

  1. Place eggplant slices on paper towel-lined trays and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let sit for 30–45 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry thoroughly.
  2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly grease with oil or spray.
  3. Set up a breading station with three bowls: flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
  4. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to help coating stick.
  5. Place breaded slices on prepared baking sheets. Lightly spray with oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
  6. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  7. Layer baked eggplant slices, then marinara sauce, then mozzarella. Repeat layers, ending with sauce and remaining mozzarella on top.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

Notes

Salting the eggplant helps remove bitterness and excess water for better texture.Baking instead of frying makes this version lighter and less greasy.For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.Use homemade or good-quality marinara for best flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/classic-eggplant-parmesan/