How to Make the Best Eggplant Parmesan: A Deliciously Cheesy Delight

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that brings together the earthy flavor of eggplant and a luscious blend of cheeses.

This recipe offers layers of tender, breaded eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella, creating an irresistible comfort food that feels like a warm hug.

Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its hearty flavors and satisfying textures.

How to Make the Best Eggplant Parmesan

Recipe Overview

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 6g

Ingredients List

For the Eggplant

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• Salt, for sweating the eggplant
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Marinara Sauce

• 4 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil

For Assembly

• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplant: Start by salting the eggplant slices to draw out excess moisture and bitterness. Lay the slices on a paper towel and sprinkle with salt.
   Let them sit for about 30 minutes, then rinse and pat dry.
2. Set Up Breading Station: In three separate shallow dishes, set up your breading station: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and black pepper.
3. Bread the Eggplant: Dip each eggplant slice first in flour, then in the egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Set aside on a plate.
4. Fry the Eggplant: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Prepare the Marinara Sauce: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the marinara sauce and dried basil, simmering for about 10 minutes.
6. Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the fried eggplant over the sauce, followed by a layer of half the mozzarella cheese and a portion of the marinara sauce. Repeat the layers.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve warm.

Tips for Perfect Eggplant Parmesan

• Choose the Right Eggplant: Look for firm, shiny eggplants with no blemishes. Smaller eggplants tend to be less bitter.
• Don’t Skip the Salting: Salting the eggplant helps to eliminate excess moisture and bitterness, making your dish taste better.
• Make It Ahead: Eggplant Parmesan can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just bake before serving.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like provolone or a sprinkle of fresh mozzarella for added flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Eggplant Turns Soggy: Ensure you’re salting and drying the eggplant properly before breading and frying.
• Cheese Is Not Melting: Make sure to use good-quality cheese and cover it with foil during the first part of baking to retain moisture.
• Dish Is Too Salty: If the breading is too salty, you can rinse the eggplant after salting and pat it dry to remove excess salt.

With its golden-brown crust and vibrant red marinara sauce, Eggplant Parmesan is a feast for the eyes. The melty cheese, often bubbling at the edges, adds a mouth-watering allure that makes it hard to resist.

Perfect Pairing

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, enhancing the overall dining experience.

What to Serve With

Eggplant Parmesan is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even as a comforting weeknight meal. It’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or a side dish alongside pasta or grilled meats.

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Eggplant Parmesan is not only a delicious dish but also a celebration of flavors and textures that will please any palate.

Its layers of crispy eggplant, rich marinara, and gooey cheese make for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

So gather your ingredients, and create a hearty dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

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