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Classic Eggplant Parmesan

Classic Eggplant Parmesan
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Classic Eggplant Parmesan is a timeless Italian dish featuring tender layers of breaded and fried eggplant, tangy marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This comforting recipe is easy to prepare, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, and offers a rich fusion of fresh herbs and savory flavors. Versatile and adaptable, it’s suitable for vegetarian and gluten-free diets with simple ingredient swaps.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 2 medium-sized firm eggplants

Coating

  • 1 cup flour
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups Italian seasoned or panko breadcrumbs (gluten-free breadcrumbs optional)

Cheese

  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or torn
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Sauce & Seasoning

  • 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or quality store-bought)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
  • Fresh basil leaves or 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Eggplant: Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle each slice generously with salt and let sit for 20 minutes to draw out moisture and reduce bitterness. Afterward, pat them dry with paper towels.
  2. Bread the Eggplant: Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs. Dip each eggplant slice first into the flour, then the egg, and finally coat it evenly with breadcrumbs to ensure a crispy crust.
  3. Fry the Eggplant: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  4. Assemble the Dish: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Add a single layer of fried eggplant slices, spoon more marinara sauce over them, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous cheese layer on top.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled dish uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Rest and Serve: Allow the Classic Eggplant Parmesan to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help the layers set for easier serving and enhanced flavors.

Notes

  • Salting the eggplant slices helps remove excess moisture and prevents sogginess.
  • Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier, better melt compared to processed cheese.
  • Fry the eggplant in batches to avoid overcrowding and maintain oil temperature for crispiness.
  • Drain fried eggplant on paper towels to reduce excess oil and greasy layers.
  • Distribute the sauce and cheese evenly between layers to prevent dryness.
  • Let the dish rest before serving for better slice formation and flavor melding.

Nutrition

Keywords: eggplant parmesan, classic italian eggplant, baked eggplant dish, vegetarian parmesan, gluten-free eggplant parmesan

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