Description
Crispy Eggplant Parmesan is a healthier twist on the classic comfort dish, featuring layers of breaded eggplant, marinara sauce, and melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry with paper towels.
- Set up a breading station: Place the flour in one shallow dish, beat the eggs in a second dish, and combine the breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper in a third dish.
- Dip each eggplant slice first in the flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the fried eggplant slices over the sauce, then sprinkle with half of the remaining marinara, half of the mozzarella, and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining eggplant, marinara, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- For a healthier version, bake the breaded eggplant slices at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, instead of frying.
- Add layers of sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 150mg