Name: Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ¼ lbs Eggplant; salt; ½ cup flour; 4 eggs; 2 cups Italian bread crumbs; ⅓ cup parmesan cheese; lemon zest; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp basil; 26 oz pasta sauce; 16 oz Mozzarella cheese; ½ cup parmesan cheese; ¼ cup Fresh Parsley

Dive into a classic Italian-American dish with this Eggplant Parmesan. Layers of crispy, baked eggplant slices, smothered in rich pasta sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese, make for a comforting and delicious meal that will leave everyone at the table craving more.

Photos of Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

If you're heading to the supermarket, you might need to pick up a few items that aren't typically in your pantry. Eggplant is the star of the show, and you'll need a fair amount. Make sure you grab Italian bread crumbs for that authentic flavor and fresh parsley to add a pop of freshness. Don't forget mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese for that melty, cheesy goodness.

Ingredients For Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant: The main ingredient, providing a hearty and nutritious base for the dish.

Salt: Essential for drawing out moisture from the eggplant and enhancing flavors.

Flour: Helps the egg mixture stick to the eggplant slices.

Eggs: Used to bind the breading to the eggplant slices.

Italian bread crumbs: Adds a crunchy texture and flavorful coating to the eggplant.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, cheesy layer to the dish.

Lemon zest: Provides a bright, citrusy note to the breading.

Garlic powder: Adds a depth of flavor to the breading mixture.

Basil: Adds a hint of aromatic herbiness to the breading.

Pasta sauce: The rich and tangy tomato base that binds the dish together.

Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy topping.

Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the final dish.

One reader, Bev Poe says:

This eggplant parmesan recipe is fantastic! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the crispy eggplant layers with gooey cheese are heavenly. It's easy to follow and results in a delicious, comforting dish. Highly recommend!

Bev Poe

Techniques Required

How to slice eggplant: Slice the eggplant into ¼ inch thick rounds for even cooking. How to salt eggplant: Sprinkle salt generously on the eggplant slices and let them sit for 20 minutes to draw out moisture and reduce bitterness. How to dredge: Coat the eggplant slices first in flour, then dip in whisked eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. How to bake eggplant: Bake the breaded eggplant slices at 425 degrees F for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. How to layer ingredients: Spread pasta sauce in a baking dish, then layer eggplant, parsley, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese, repeating the layers and ending with cheese. How to bake casserole: Bake the layered eggplant parmesan at 375 degrees F for 30 to 35 minutes until golden and bubbly.

How To Make Eggplant Parmesan

Our baked Italian eggplant parmesan is the perfect dish to serve at your next dinner party! Cook up this flavorful meal in just under 2 hours.

Preparation: 45 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Total: 1 hour 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

¼lbseggplant,sliced
salt
½cupflour
4eggs
2cupsItalian bread crumbs
⅓cupparmesan cheese,shredded
lemon zest,from 1 lemon
½tspgarlic powder
½tspbasil
26ozpasta sauce
16ozmozzarella cheese,shredded
½cupparmesan cheese,shredded
¼cupfresh parsley,or basil, chopped

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Prepare two baking pans with parchment paper, then set aside.
Slice the eggplant to about ¼ inch thick, then place them on a rack or pan.
Sprinkle generously with salt, then allow to sit for 20 minutes.
Whisk the eggs together in a shallow bowl.
In a second shallow bowl, add the flour.
In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan, lemon zest, garlic powder and basil.
Set all three bowls aside.
After the eggplant has rested, rinse them well under cold running water, then pat dry.
Dredge each slice of eggplant first in the flour, then into the egg, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture.
Place each slice of eggplant on the prepared parchment lined pans. Spray with cooking spray, if desired.
Bake for 5 minutes, then flip and bake for 5 minutes more or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven, then reduce the temperature to 375 degrees F.
Spread a thin layer of pasta sauce in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch dish.
Layer ⅓ of the eggplant, parsley, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese.
Repeat the layers, ending each with cheese.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 456.87kcal
Fat: 22.93g
Saturated Fat: 12.54g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.57g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.01g
Carbohydrates: 35.48g
Fiber: 3.59g
Sugar: 8.06g
Protein: 26.42g
Cholesterol: 142.82mg
Sodium: 1231.54mg
Calcium: 600.99mg
Potassium: 486.89mg
Iron: 2.89mg
Vitamin A: 216.68µg
Vitamin C: 4.66mg

Technique Tip for This Recipe

When preparing eggplant for eggplant parmesan, salting the slices and letting them sit for 20 minutes helps to draw out excess moisture and bitterness. This step ensures that the eggplant becomes tender and flavorful during baking. Be sure to rinse and pat them dry thoroughly before dredging to remove any excess salt and moisture.

Time-Saving Tips for Cooking

Pre-slice the eggplant: Slice the eggplant ahead of time and store it in the fridge to save prep time.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded mozzarella and parmesan to cut down on grating time.

Prepare the breading station: Set up the flour, eggs, and breadcrumb mixture in advance to streamline the breading process.

Batch bake the eggplant: Use both baking pans simultaneously to bake all the eggplant slices at once.

Use jarred pasta sauce: Save time by using a good-quality jarred pasta sauce instead of making your own.

Substitute Ingredients For Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

eggplant - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making it a good alternative to eggplant.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar salty flavor with a slightly different mineral profile.
flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour is a gluten-free option that adds a nutty flavor and works well for breading.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) are a vegan alternative that helps bind ingredients.
italian bread crumbs - Substitute with panko bread crumbs: Panko bread crumbs provide a similar crispy texture and can be seasoned to taste.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor and is a vegan alternative to parmesan cheese.
lemon zest - Substitute with lime zest: Lime zest provides a similar citrusy brightness and can be used in the same quantity.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder offers a different but complementary flavor that can enhance the dish.
basil - Substitute with oregano: Oregano has a robust flavor that pairs well with Italian dishes and can replace basil.
pasta sauce - Substitute with marinara sauce: Marinara sauce is a similar tomato-based sauce that can be used interchangeably with pasta sauce.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese melts well and has a mild flavor, making it a good alternative to mozzarella.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with grana padano: Grana Padano is a hard cheese with a similar texture and flavor profile to parmesan.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro offers a different but fresh and vibrant flavor that can complement the dish.

Best Way to Present This Dish

Use a pristine white plate: Select a large, pristine white plate to create a clean canvas that will make the colors of the eggplant parmesan pop.
Layer with precision: Carefully layer the eggplant slices with mozzarella cheese and pasta sauce in a neat, structured manner to showcase the dish's components.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Finely chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it delicately over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
Add a touch of zest: Grate a small amount of lemon zest over the dish to enhance the aroma and add a subtle citrus note.
Drizzle with high-quality olive oil: Lightly drizzle extra virgin olive oil around the plate to add a glossy finish and enhance the flavor.
Serve with a side of marinara: Present a small ramekin of warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Create height: Stack the eggplant parmesan slices slightly off-center to create visual interest and height on the plate.
Use microgreens for elegance: Add a few microgreens on top of the dish for an elegant touch and a hint of bitterness to balance the flavors.
Finish with a parmesan crisp: Place a delicate parmesan crisp on top of the dish for added texture and a sophisticated look.
Serve immediately: Ensure the eggplant parmesan is served warm to maintain the integrity of the melted mozzarella and the crispiness of the breaded eggplant.

Best Tools for This Recipe

Oven: Used to bake the eggplant slices and later to bake the assembled eggplant parmesan dish.
Baking pans: Needed to place the eggplant slices for baking. Line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Parchment paper: Prevents the eggplant slices from sticking to the baking pans.
Knife: Essential for slicing the eggplant into ¼ inch thick pieces.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing the eggplant.
Rack: Useful for placing the salted eggplant slices to allow them to rest and release moisture.
Shallow bowls: Three are needed to hold the flour, whisked eggs, and breadcrumb mixture for dredging the eggplant slices.
Whisk: Used to beat the eggs in one of the shallow bowls.
Measuring cups: Required to measure out the flour, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and other ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Needed for measuring smaller quantities of ingredients like garlic powder and basil.
Colander: Useful for rinsing the salted eggplant slices under cold running water.
Paper towels: Handy for patting the rinsed eggplant slices dry.
Cooking spray: Optional, but can be used to lightly coat the eggplant slices before baking to help them crisp up.
9 x 13-inch baking dish: Used to assemble and bake the layered eggplant parmesan.
Spatula: Helps in spreading the pasta sauce and layering the eggplant, cheese, and parsley.
Serving utensils: Needed for serving the finished eggplant parmesan.

How to Store or Freeze This Dish

Allow the eggplant parmesan to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
For short-term storage, transfer the eggplant parmesan to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350 degrees f. Place the eggplant parmesan in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. For a crispier texture, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating.
For freezing, first, ensure the eggplant parmesan is completely cooled. Cut it into individual portions for easier reheating later.
Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and contents.
The eggplant parmesan can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the eggplant parmesan in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees f, covered with foil, for about 30-35 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to achieve a bubbly, golden top.
Avoid microwaving the eggplant parmesan as it can become soggy. The oven method ensures a better texture and flavor.

How to Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This is the optimal temperature to ensure your eggplant parmesan reheats evenly without drying out.
Place the leftover eggplant parmesan in an oven-safe dish. If you have a smaller portion, you can use a smaller dish to keep the layers intact.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil. This helps to retain moisture and prevents the cheese from burning before the eggplant is thoroughly heated.
Bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. Check the eggplant parmesan halfway through to ensure it is heating evenly. If you notice any dry spots, you can add a small amount of pasta sauce to keep it moist.
Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. This will allow the cheese to become bubbly and slightly golden, enhancing the dish's texture and flavor.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can use a microwave. Place a portion of eggplant parmesan on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to trap steam.
Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Check the temperature and stir the pasta sauce around the edges to ensure even heating. Continue to heat in 1-minute increments until thoroughly warmed.
For a crispier texture, you can use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350 degrees F and place the eggplant parmesan on a toaster oven-safe tray.
Heat for 10-15 minutes, checking periodically to ensure it doesn't overcook. The toaster oven method can help maintain the crispiness of the breaded eggplant.
Once reheated, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional parmesan cheese to refresh the flavors before serving. Enjoy your reheated eggplant parmesan as if it were freshly made!

Random Fact About This Recipe

A random fact about this recipe is that eggplant parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the southern regions of Italy. It is traditionally made by layering fried eggplant slices with mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and pasta sauce, then baking until bubbly and golden.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This eggplant parmesan recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With basic ingredients like eggplant, flour, eggs, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, pasta sauce, and mozzarella cheese, it leverages pantry staples and fresh produce. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Considering the nutritional value and the delicious outcome, this recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This eggplant parmesan recipe, while delicious, leans towards the unhealthy side due to its high cheese content and the use of bread crumbs and flour for breading. The dish is rich in saturated fats and calories, primarily from the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Additionally, the pasta sauce may contain added sugars and sodium, further tipping the scale towards unhealthy.

However, there are ways to make this classic comfort food healthier without sacrificing flavor:

Use whole wheat flour and whole grain bread crumbs to increase fiber content.
Opt for low-fat or part-skim mozzarella and parmesan cheese to reduce saturated fat.
Replace some of the cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor with added nutrients.
Choose a low-sodium, no-sugar-added pasta sauce or make your own to control ingredients.
Bake the eggplant slices on a wire rack to allow excess oil to drip away, reducing overall fat content.
Incorporate more fresh herbs like basil and oregano to enhance flavor without adding calories.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a lighter, healthier version of eggplant parmesan that still satisfies your taste buds.

Editor's Thoughts on This Recipe

This eggplant parmesan recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The salting step ensures the eggplant is tender and not bitter, while the breadcrumb mixture adds a satisfying crunch. The combination of mozzarella and parmesan creates a rich, cheesy layer that complements the tangy pasta sauce perfectly. Baking the eggplant instead of frying makes it a healthier option without sacrificing taste. The fresh parsley adds a touch of brightness to the dish. Overall, this recipe is well-balanced and sure to impress at any dinner table.

Enhance Your Eggplant Parmesan Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Breadsticks: Imagine the aroma of freshly baked garlic breadsticks wafting through your kitchen. These crispy delights, infused with the essence of garlic and herbs, will perfectly complement the rich flavors of your eggplant parmesan. A bite of the breadstick, followed by a forkful of the cheesy, saucy main course, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that dance on your palate.

Caprese Salad: A caprese salad brings a burst of freshness to your meal. Picture vibrant tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves, all drizzled with a balsamic reduction. This colorful and refreshing side dish not only adds a pop of color to your plate but also balances the richness of the eggplant parmesan with its light and zesty flavors.

Roasted Asparagus: For a touch of elegance, serve roasted asparagus alongside your eggplant parmesan. The tender stalks, lightly seasoned and roasted to perfection, offer a delightful contrast to the cheesy layers of the main dish. The subtle earthiness of the asparagus enhances the overall dining experience, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors.

Minestrone Soup: Warm up your meal with a hearty bowl of minestrone soup. This classic Italian soup, brimming with vegetables, beans, and pasta, provides a comforting start to your dinner. The robust flavors of the soup set the stage for the rich and savory eggplant parmesan, creating a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

Tiramisu: End your culinary journey on a sweet note with a decadent tiramisu. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and a dusting of cocoa powder create a dessert that's both indulgent and sophisticated. The light and airy texture of the tiramisu provides a delightful contrast to the hearty main course, leaving your taste buds craving for more.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish

Zucchini Lasagna: If you're looking for a low-carb alternative to traditional lasagna, zucchini lasagna is your answer! Thinly sliced zucchini replaces the noodles, layered with rich ricotta cheese, savory meat sauce, and gooey mozzarella. It's a delightful twist on a classic dish that will leave you satisfied without the carb overload.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bright and colorful bell peppers stuffed with a hearty mixture of ground beef, rice, tomato sauce, and cheese. Baked until tender and topped with melted cheese, these stuffed peppers are a comforting and nutritious meal that's perfect for any night of the week.

Vegetable Moussaka: A Mediterranean delight, vegetable moussaka features layers of roasted eggplant, potatoes, and a rich tomato sauce. Topped with a creamy béchamel sauce and baked to perfection, this dish is a vegetarian's dream come true. It's hearty, flavorful, and sure to impress.

Chicken Parmesan: A classic Italian-American dish, chicken parmesan features breaded and fried chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, it's a comforting and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells: Jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and parmesan. Baked in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted mozzarella, these stuffed shells are a comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for a cozy dinner.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delightful stuffed mushrooms. Imagine tender mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Each bite offers a creamy, flavorful explosion, perfectly balanced by the earthy mushroom base. Top them with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a touch of breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch. These little bites are perfect for any gathering, offering a sophisticated yet comforting start to your meal.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with a hint of garlic for an aromatic base. Pile on a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy twist, while a sprinkle of sea salt and cracked black pepper brings all the flavors together. This appetizer is a perfect blend of freshness and simplicity, making it an ideal start to any meal.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in a classic Italian treat that layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a rich mascarpone cream. The hint of cocoa powder on top adds a touch of bitterness that perfectly balances the sweetness. This dessert is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Garnish with a sprinkle of chocolate shavings and a few coffee beans for an elegant finish.

Panna Cotta: Delight in a creamy, silky Panna Cotta that melts in your mouth. Infused with vanilla bean, this dessert is both simple and sophisticated. Serve it with a berry compote or a drizzle of caramel sauce to add a burst of flavor and color. A few sprigs of fresh mint on top not only enhance the presentation but also add a refreshing note.

Why trust this Eggplant Parmesan Recipe:

This eggplant parmesan recipe is a must-try for its perfect blend of flavors and textures. The eggplant is baked to golden perfection, ensuring a healthier dish without sacrificing taste. The combination of mozzarella and parmesan cheese creates a rich, gooey layer that complements the pasta sauce beautifully. Fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness, making each bite delightful. Trust this recipe for a satisfying and delicious meal that will impress your family and friends.

Want to share your own take on this classic Italian dish or discuss other eggplant recipes? Head over to our Recipe Sharing forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming soggy?

To prevent soggy eggplant, make sure to salt the slices and let them sit for 20 minutes. This draws out excess moisture. Also, pat them dry thoroughly after rinsing.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the eggplant slices and even assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, let it come to room temperature first.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and parmesan are traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or fontina for a different flavor.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

You can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.