Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that combines layers of tender eggplant, marinara sauce, and melted cheese. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy the rich flavors of Italian cuisine. This dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it a great choice for gatherings or cozy dinners at home!

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

Baking Dish: For layering and baking the eggplant.
Mixing Bowls: For breading the eggplant and mixing ingredients.
Skillet or Frying Pan: For frying the eggplant slices.
Cutting Board and Knife: For slicing the eggplant.
Spoon or Spatula: For spreading sauce and layering ingredients.

Ingredient Overview

Eggplant: The star of the dish; it provides a savory base.
Marinara Sauce: A rich tomato sauce that adds flavor and moisture.
Mozzarella Cheese: Provides a gooey, melty texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor and helps create a golden crust.
Bread Crumbs: For coating the eggplant, giving it a crispy texture when baked.
Flour and Eggs: For the breading process.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant
Slice the eggplant into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Lay them out on a paper towel, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture. This helps reduce bitterness and makes for a firmer texture when cooked.
Bread the Eggplant
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In one bowl, place some flour. In another bowl, beat a few eggs. In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs with a bit of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dip each eggplant slice first in flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
Fry the Eggplant
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches until they are golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Layer the Dish
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of fried eggplant slices over the sauce. Top with more marinara, a layer of mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Bake the Dish
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Let the dish cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes for easier serving.

Recipe Tips

Eggplant Selection: Choose firm, smooth eggplants that are free from blemishes. Smaller ones tend to be less bitter.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the eggplant and sauce a day in advance. Assemble the dish just before baking.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Eggplant Parmesan pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use other cheeses?
A: Yes! Feel free to mix in other cheeses like provolone or fontina for different flavors.

Q: Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
A: You can grill or bake the eggplant instead of frying it for a lighter version.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy Eggplant Parmesan as a main dish or serve it alongside a fresh salad or pasta for a complete meal.

Equipment

Baking dish
Mixing bowls
Skillet or frying pan
Cutting board and knife
Spoon or spatula

Ingredients

Eggplant Parmesan
2 large eggplants
Salt (for sweating eggplant)
1 cup flour
3 large eggs, beaten
2 cups breadcrumbs
4 cups marinara sauce
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant
Slice eggplant, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 30 minutes.
Bread the Eggplant
Set up three bowls for flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dip each slice in flour, egg, and then breadcrumbs.
Fry the Eggplant
Heat olive oil in a skillet and fry breaded eggplant slices until golden brown.
Layer the Dish
In a baking dish, layer marinara, fried eggplant, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat until ingredients are used.
Bake the Dish
Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
Cool and Serve
Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Summary

Eggplant Parmesan is a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of crispy eggplant, marinara, and cheese, it’s sure to be a favorite among both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike!

Notes

Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices in the breading or sauce to customize the flavor to your liking. Enjoy this hearty and comforting dish!