How To Cook Eggplant Parmesan Easy

Discover the Simple Pleasure of Eggplant Parmesan

Are you looking to add some Italian flair to your dinner table? If so, you won’t want to miss this easy and delicious recipe for Eggplant Parmesan. This classic dish is a crowd-pleasing favorite, packed with layers of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering rendition of Eggplant Parmesan that your family and friends will rave about.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you roll up your sleeves and get cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 large eggplants – look for firm and shiny ones
• 1 cup breadcrumbs – you can use store-bought or make your own by toasting and crushing stale bread
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – freshly grated is always a plus!
• 2 cups marinara sauce – homemade or store-bought, choose your favorite
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – for that gooey, melty goodness
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – for coating the eggplant slices
• 2 eggs – to help bind the breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves – for a burst of freshness
• Salt and pepper – to season your dish
• Extra-virgin olive oil – for frying the eggplant slices

Preparation Steps

Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking:

1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be ready when you’re finished frying the eggplant slices.
2. Next, slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch slices. Sprinkle each slice with salt and let them sit for 15 minutes. This helps to remove any bitterness.
3. In the meantime, prepare your breading station. In one bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Take each eggplant slice and coat it in flour, then dip it in the whisked eggs, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Make sure both sides are fully coated.
5. Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.
6. Now it’s time to assemble the dish. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Add a layer of fried eggplant slices, followed by another layer of sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
7. Repeat the layers until all the eggplant slices are used, making sure to end with a layer of sauce and a generous amount of mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
10. Allow it to cool slightly before serving, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

There you have it – a simple, yet scrumptious recipe for Eggplant Parmesan. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this dish is perfect for impressing your loved ones or treating yourself to a comforting meal. Serve it alongside a crispy salad or with a side of pasta for a complete dining experience. Give it a try and let your taste buds take a trip to Italy!