Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that combines crispy, breaded eggplant slices with layers of rich marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. This delicious, comforting meal is perfect for vegetarians and anyone who loves flavorful, cheesy pasta dishes. Baked to golden perfection, this dish can be served on its own, over pasta, or with a side of garlic bread.

Ingredients

• 1 large eggplant
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the eggplant into 1/4 inch thick slices.
3. In a shallow dish, whisk the eggs.
4. In another dish, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Dip each eggplant slice into the eggs, then coat with the bread crumb mixture.
6. Place the coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce.
8. Arrange a layer of baked eggplant slices on top of the sauce.
9. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and repeat the layers.
10. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
11. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Vegan Eggplant Parmesan: Use a plant-based egg substitute, vegan cheese, and breadcrumbs without dairy for a completely vegan version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check that the marinara sauce is gluten-free.
• Add Meat: For a non-vegetarian version, add cooked ground beef or sausage between the layers for added protein.
• Spicy Eggplant Parmesan: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle over the eggplant slices before baking for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Eggplant Parmesan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the breaded eggplant slices and layer them with sauce and cheese ahead of time. Refrigerate the assembled dish for up to 1 day and bake before serving.
2. How do I keep the eggplant from becoming soggy? Make sure to bake the breaded eggplant slices long enough to get crispy before assembling. If desired, you can also salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
3. Can I freeze Eggplant Parmesan? Yes, Eggplant Parmesan freezes well. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
4. What kind of marinara sauce should I use? Use your favorite brand of marinara sauce or make your own for the best flavor. A simple tomato-based sauce with herbs like basil and oregano works well.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use other types of cheese such as provolone, gouda, or a blend of Italian cheeses. Parmesan and mozzarella are the most traditional options.
6. How can I make this dish healthier? Use less cheese, substitute whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs, and bake the eggplant slices instead of frying them to reduce calories.
7. Can I add vegetables to this dish? Yes, you can add vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
8. Can I make this dish spicy? Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle them on top of the eggplant slices before baking for a spicy kick.
9. Is Eggplant Parmesan gluten-free? Traditional Eggplant Parmesan is not gluten-free, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
10. Can I use frozen eggplant? It’s best to use fresh eggplant for this dish as frozen eggplant may release more moisture and affect the texture.

Conclusion

Eggplant Parmesan is a hearty, delicious meal that can be enjoyed by vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Its crispy layers of eggplant, flavorful marinara sauce, and melty cheese make it a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a main course with pasta or enjoyed on its own, Eggplant Parmesan is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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