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Eggplant Parmesan

A serving spoon lifts a generous slice of bubbling Eggplant Parmesan from a baking dish, revealing layers of eggplant, cheese, and marinara sauce.

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A hearty and comforting vegetarian take on the classic Italian-American dish, featuring golden-fried eggplant slices layered with rich tomato sauce and melted cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium eggplants, sliced 1/2 inch thick
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup olive oil, for frying
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper mixed together.
  3. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
  5. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  6. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices over the sauce.
  7. Top the eggplant with more marinara sauce and slices of mozzarella cheese.
  8. Repeat the layers until all eggplant is used, ending with a layer of sauce and mozzarella.
  9. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.
  10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
  11. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, you can bake the breaded eggplant slices instead of frying them. Arrange them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden.
  • You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving.
  • Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

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