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Eggplant Parmesan

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Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian-American comfort dish made with breaded and fried eggplant slices layered with marinara sauce and cheese, then baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for sweating eggplant)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs (Italian-style preferred)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds and lay them on a baking sheet. Sprinkle both sides with salt and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan.
  4. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture. Set aside.
  5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
  6. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices over the sauce. Top with more marinara sauce and a layer of mozzarella. Repeat layers, ending with sauce and mozzarella.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
  8. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

  • Salting the eggplant helps reduce bitterness and excess moisture.
  • Use a high-quality marinara sauce for best flavor.
  • Can be made ahead and reheated before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Eggplant Parmesan, Italian, vegetarian, baked eggplant, comfort food

Find it online: https://recipesfoodeasy.com/eggplant-parmesan/