Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious. The combination of eggplant, cheese, and tomato sauce is simply irresistible. The best part about this dish is that it’s baked in the oven, making it a healthier option than traditional fried versions. This delicious eggplant parmesan recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into ¼ inch thick rounds
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups of your favorite tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each slice with the olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then flip the slices over and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, prepare the breading. In one shallow bowl, combine the flour, eggs, and Italian seasoning. In a separate shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each eggplant slice into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture. Place the breaded slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then flip the slices over and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over each eggplant slice.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over each slice, then return the baking sheet to the oven.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot with additional tomato sauce on the side.
Tips
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven before serving.
- Use your favorite brand of tomato sauce for the best flavor.
- Feel free to substitute other cheeses for the mozzarella and Parmesan, such as fontina or cheddar.
- For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- You can also add other vegetables to the dish, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to bake eggplant parmesan?
It takes approximately 45 minutes to bake eggplant parmesan. This includes preheating the oven, baking the eggplant slices, breading them, and baking them a second time with the cheese and tomato sauce.
What kind of cheese should I use for eggplant parmesan?
Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese are the most common cheeses used in eggplant parmesan, but you can also experiment with other cheeses such as fontina or cheddar.
Can I make eggplant parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, you can make eggplant parmesan ahead of time and reheat it in the oven before serving.
Can I add other vegetables to eggplant parmesan?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to eggplant parmesan, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Can I make eggplant parmesan spicier?
Yes, you can make eggplant parmesan spicier by adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
