Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplant)
globe eggplant ~ 1 pound each - washed and dried (no need to peel
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
3.5 ounces
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3.2 ounces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce
or your favorite Marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
or you can use thinly sliced fresh mozzarella
- Handful of fresh basil leaves
as garnish
Directions
- 1
Salt eggplant*: Cut the top of the eggplant and eggplant into ½-inch thick slices. Spread them on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle them with ½ teaspoon of salt on both sides (¼ teaspoon salt for each side.) Let them rest for 15 minutes.
- 2
Pat dry now-rested eggplant slices with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Set them aside.
- 3
While the eggplant is resting, prepare your dredging station. In a shallow bowl, whisk eggs. In a second bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper.
- 4
Dip each eggplant slice in the beaten egg making sure to let the excess drip off. Then dip it in the panko mixture and gently press to ensure the coating sticks. Continue to follow the same steps with the rest of the eggplant slices. Transfer the now-breaded eggplant slices onto a baking sheet until you are ready to air fry.
- 5
Pre-heat the air fryer to 350 degrees F.
- 6
Place panko-coated eggplant rounds in an even layer in the fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping. It is best to do this in two batches so that they are perfectly crispy with a crunchy exterior.
- 7
Air fry for 14 minutes, making sure to flip each slice halfway through the baking process. It should be done when they turn lightly golden brown.
- 8
Carefully remove the air fryer basket and place two tablespoons of tomato sauce and a tablespoon of mozzarella cheese on top of each slice.
- 9
Air fry* until the cheese melts for about a minute or two. Repeat the same process with the second batch of eggplant slices.
- 10
Serve while they are still hot.
Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
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Based on 2 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving the rich, comforting flavors of classic eggplant parmesan but looking for a healthier, less greasy option? This Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan recipe delivers all the crispy texture and cheesy goodness you love, without the deep-frying mess, transforming a beloved Italian dish into an easy weeknight meal.
The magic of the air fryer truly makes this recipe shine. It crisps the eggplant slices to a perfect golden brown with minimal oil, creating a light yet satisfying bite. This technique allows the savory Parmesan cheese and aromatic Italian seasoning to truly stand out, making it a delightfully healthier version of a traditional favorite.
Prepare to enjoy tender slices of eggplant, boasting a wonderfully crispy exterior, nestled under a generous blanket of vibrant marinara sauce and gooey, melted mozzarella. Each forkful offers a symphony of textures and flavors: the subtle sweetness of the eggplant, the savory depth of the cheese and herbs, and the bright tang of the tomato basil sauce, all crowned with fresh basil.
This dish is surprisingly straightforward to prepare, bringing a taste of authentic Italian comfort right to your table. You'll love how the panko breadcrumbs contribute to that irresistible crunch, ensuring every layer is a delight.
Feel free to customize this Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan to your liking. While shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, using thinly sliced fresh mozzarella can add an even creamier, richer texture. You can also easily swap in your favorite high-quality store-bought marinara if you're short on time, though homemade always elevates the dish.
This comforting Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan is perfect as a satisfying main course for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Serve it alongside a simple green salad or some crusty bread to fully enjoy every delicious bite.