Ingredients
To make this dish, you’ll need some simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need to gather before you begin.
- Eggplant (2 large) – The star of the dish! Choose firm, fresh eggplants with smooth skin.
- Breadcrumbs (1 ½ cups) – These will create that satisfying crispy coating on the eggplant.
- Flour (1 cup) – Helps the breadcrumbs stick to the eggplant slices.
- Eggs (2 large) – For the egg wash, which is key for getting the breadcrumbs to adhere.
- Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – The melty, stretchy cheese that makes Eggplant Parmesan irresistible.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated) – For an extra layer of richness and flavor.
- Marinara Sauce (3 cups) – You can use store-bought or homemade. Choose one that’s flavorful and thick.
- Olive Oil (for frying) – Used to fry the eggplant slices to a crispy perfection.
- Salt & Pepper – For seasoning the dish to taste.
- Fresh Basil (optional, for garnish) – To add a burst of color and freshness on top!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Eggplant
Start by slicing the eggplant into rounds about ½ inch thick. Eggplant can sometimes have a bitter taste, so we need to remove excess moisture from it. The easiest way to do this is to sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for 20-30 minutes. This process draws out the moisture and helps eliminate any bitterness. After 30 minutes, use a clean towel to gently pat the slices dry.
Now that your eggplant is prepped, you’re ready to bread it!
2. Bread the Eggplant
In one shallow bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, crack the eggs and beat them lightly. In a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs and season them with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Dip each eggplant slice into the flour, coating it evenly, then into the egg wash, and finally into the breadcrumbs. Make sure the breadcrumbs cover the slices well so you get that crispy, golden texture when fried.
3. Frying the Eggplant
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan – this ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Once the slices are done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Assembling the Layers
Now comes the fun part—assembling the layers! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a large baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices on top of the sauce, followed by more marinara sauce. Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the sauce.
Repeat this layering process until you run out of ingredients. The top layer should end with a generous amount of cheese for that golden, bubbling finish.
5. Baking
Place your assembled dish into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You should see a beautiful golden crust on top, signaling that it’s ready to be enjoyed.
Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish it with fresh basil leaves for that extra touch of flavor and freshness.
Conclusion
Eggplant Parmesan is the perfect dish when you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and utterly comforting. It’s simple to make, loaded with flavor, and can be customized to fit your dietary preferences. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or making it for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy this irresistible dish. Trust me—your taste buds will thank you!
