Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Comfort Food: Combines crispy breaded eggplant with savory tomato sauce and gooey cheese for a satisfying meal.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A hearty main course suitable for vegetarians, packed with flavor and nutrients.
• Make-Ahead Option: Can be assembled in advance, making it convenient for busy schedules or entertaining guests.
• Versatile Serving Ideas: Pairs well with pasta, salad, or crusty bread, allowing for a complete and customizable meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Eggplant
• Eggs
• Italian seasoned bread crumbs
• Spaghetti sauce
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Dried basil

Directions

1. Prepare the Eggplant: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and thinly slice the eggplant.
2. Bread the Slices: Dip each eggplant slice into beaten eggs, then coat with Italian seasoned bread crumbs.
3. Bake the Eggplant: Arrange the breaded slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 5 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
4. Assemble the Dish: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of spaghetti sauce. Add a layer of baked eggplant slices, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat layers, ending with cheese on top. Sprinkle dried basil over the final layer.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 10 servings.
• Preparation Time: About 20 minutes.
• Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes.
• Total Time: Around 1 hour and 5 minutes.

Variations

• Healthier Version: For a lighter dish, bake the breaded eggplant slices instead of frying, and use part-skim mozzarella cheese.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace dairy cheese with plant-based alternatives and use flax eggs (ground flaxseed mixed with water) instead of eggs for a vegan-friendly version.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or use a spicy marinara to give the dish some heat.
• Herb Enhancement: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley between the layers for added freshness and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover eggplant Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, assemble the dish but do not bake. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

What is Eggplant Parmesan?

Eggplant Parmesan is a layered casserole dish featuring breaded and baked or fried eggplant slices, marinara sauce, and melted cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan.

Do I need to peel the eggplant?

Peeling the eggplant is optional. The skin is edible, but peeling can result in a more tender texture.

How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming soggy?

Salting the eggplant slices and letting them sit for about 30 minutes can draw out excess moisture, helping to prevent sogginess.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish in advance, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What should I serve with Eggplant Parmesan?

It pairs well with pasta, a fresh green salad, or crusty bread.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, baked eggplant Parmesan can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave for individual portions.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, by using gluten-free bread crumbs, you can make a gluten-free version of Eggplant Parmesan.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

While traditional Eggplant Parmesan is meatless, you can add layers of cooked ground beef or sausage if desired.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Use plant-based cheese substitutes and replace eggs with a mixture of ground flaxseed and water to make the dish vegan-friendly.

Conclusion

Eggplant Parmesan is a delightful and versatile dish that brings together rich flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re adhering to dietary preferences or seeking a hearty meal, this recipe offers flexibility and satisfaction. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven with your favorite sides, and savor the classic taste of this beloved casserole.

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