Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

8 servings
Classic eggplant Parmesan with layers of globe eggplant, mozzarella, Parmesan, and basil. Layers of comfort and flavor, Italian-style! Don't skip the first step of salting the eggplant, and be sure to check out the notes and watch the video and tutorial.

Ingredients

  • 2 eggplants

    thinly sliced length-wise

  • Salt
  • 2 large eggs

    beaten

  • Black pepper
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cups tomato sauce

    no salt added

  • 2 oz Parmesan cheese

    ), grated (more if needed

  • Large bunch of fresh basil leaves

    reserve a few for garnish

  • 8 to 10 oz fresh mozzarella cheese

    ), sliced (more if needed

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

  2. 2

    Lay eggplant slices on a large baking sheet lined with paper towel. Sprinkle with salt and set aside for 30 minutes while you prepare the remaining ingredients. Pat dry. (Optional step. See notes)

  3. 3

    Prepare a dredging station with two somewhat shallow bowls, one for the beaten eggs and the other for flour.

  4. 4

    Coat an eggplant slice in the flour (shake off the excess) then dip it into the egg and let excess drip back into the bowl. Repeat with the remaining slices. Set eggplant on a large tray for now.

  5. 5

    Heat the oil in a large frying pan or skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Working in batches if necessary, cook the eggplant slices for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until nicely golden. Place fried eggplant on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

  6. 6

    Assemble the eggplant parmesan casserole. Spread a bit of the tomato sauce on the bottom of a casserole dish, add a layer of fried eggplant slices,  then top with Parmesan, basil, and mozzarella in  Season to your taste. Continue layering in this same pattern until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese on the very top.

  7. 7

    Place the dish on a baking sheet and bake in 325 degrees F heated-oven for 30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese has melted.

  8. 8

    Remove from oven and set aside for 10 minutes before serving. Add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top. Enjoy!

Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

70 min8 servings

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About this Recipe

Craving those comforting layers of tender eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese? This classic Eggplant Parmesan recipe brings authentic Italian flavors right to your kitchen, perfect for a cozy, satisfying dinner that truly feels like a culinary hug.

The secret to truly spectacular Eggplant Parmesan, the kind with beautifully tender layers that don't turn watery, starts with perfectly prepared eggplant. This recipe emphasizes the crucial first step of salting your thinly sliced globe eggplant. This time-honored technique draws out excess moisture and bitterness, guaranteeing your final dish is never soggy, just velvety and rich, setting it apart from common soggy versions.

Prepare for a deeply satisfying experience, where each forkful delivers pure Italian comfort. You'll encounter layers of beautifully tender eggplant, brightened by a vibrant no-salt-added tomato sauce. This is generously enrobed in a luscious, melty blend of fresh mozzarella and sharp, grated Parmesan cheese. Fresh basil leaves are carefully placed throughout, infusing the dish with an aromatic lift that perfectly balances the savory richness. The interplay of textures, from the yielding eggplant to the bubbling cheese, creates a symphony of classic flavors that truly delights.

This recipe champions the traditional, yet offers flexibility for your pantry and palate. You could incorporate a pinch of dried oregano into the tomato sauce for an extra layer of herbal depth. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a touch of red pepper flakes will awaken the flavors. If you prefer, a mix of provolone with the mozzarella can introduce a sharper, tangier cheese profile.

Eggplant Parmesan shines as a hearty vegetarian main course, ideal for a family meal or a gathering with friends. It pairs beautifully with a crisp, simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette and a side of warm, crusty bread to savor every bit of the delicious sauce.

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