Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious Italian-inspired dish that features baked eggplant slices layered with homemade tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This recipe is perfect for vegetarian dinners and makes for a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.
As a healthy comfort food option, this Eggplant Parmesan is not only easy to prepare but also fits well into meatless meals. It’s a great choice for easy weeknight dinners and can be served alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread.
Delicious Baked Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan stands out as a delightful option for vegetarian dinners, combining layers of crispy baked eggplant with rich homemade tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese. This dish embodies the essence of Italian-inspired meals, making it a wonderful choice for family-friendly meals.
With its satisfying flavors and textures, Eggplant Parmesan serves as a healthy comfort food that can easily fit into meatless meals. The crispy veggie recipes are perfect for easy weeknight dinners, allowing you to enjoy a hearty dish without the fuss.
Preparing the Eggplant
To achieve the perfect texture, start by preparing the eggplant. Slice it into 1/4-inch rounds and sprinkle with salt to draw out moisture. Allow the slices to sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing and patting them dry. This step is crucial for ensuring that the eggplant becomes crispy when baked.
Once the eggplant is ready, the next step is to create a flavorful coating. Combine breadcrumbs with dried oregano and garlic powder in a shallow dish. Dip each eggplant slice in olive oil, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture for a crunchy finish.
Baking the Eggplant
Arrange the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to achieve an even golden color. This method results in perfectly crispy baked eggplant, which will serve as the foundation of your Eggplant Parmesan.
Once the eggplant is baked, it’s time to layer the dish. Begin with a layer of homemade tomato sauce at the bottom of a baking dish, followed by a layer of the crispy eggplant. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the top, and repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese.
Layering and Baking the Dish
After assembling the layers, place the dish back in the oven for an additional 20-25 minutes. This final baking step allows the cheese to melt and bubble, creating a beautiful golden crust on top. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time is simply irresistible.
Once baked, let the Eggplant Parmesan cool for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor, enhancing the dish’s presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Eggplant Parmesan is best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven. Serve it alongside a side of crusty bread and a fresh salad to create a complete meal. The combination of textures and flavors makes for a warm and inviting dining atmosphere, perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides a wholesome option for those looking for healthy comfort food. With its layers of tomato sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan, it’s a delightful way to enjoy baked eggplant recipes that everyone will love.
Conclusion
Eggplant Parmesan is a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire, especially for those seeking easy weeknight dinners or vegetarian options. Its versatility and rich flavors make it a go-to choice for any occasion, ensuring that you can enjoy a delicious meal that is both comforting and nutritious.
Delicious Baked Eggplant Parmesan
This Eggplant Parmesan recipe features crispy baked eggplant slices layered with rich tomato sauce and topped with mozzarella and parmesan cheese. The dish takes about 1 hour to prepare and serves 4 people, making it a perfect option for family-friendly meals.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups homemade tomato sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggplant: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
- Bread the Eggplant: In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs, oregano, and garlic powder. Dip each eggplant slice in olive oil, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake the Eggplant: Arrange the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Layer the Dish: In a baking dish, spread a layer of tomato sauce, followed by a layer of baked eggplant, then sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
- Bake the Parmesan: Bake in the oven for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g