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Classic Baked Eggplant Parmesan: The Best Recipe

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A delicious and lightened-up version of the Italian classic, featuring crispy oven-baked eggplant layers smothered in savory marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium-sized eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Sprinkle eggplant rounds with salt and let sit for 30 minutes. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, oregano, basil, and black pepper.
  4. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in egg, and coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the baked eggplant slices, followed by half of the remaining sauce and half of the mozzarella. Repeat the layers.
  7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Notes

  • Salting the eggplant is crucial to remove bitterness and ensure a firm texture.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
  • Resting the dish after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to slice cleanly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Classic Baked Eggplant Parmesan, Eggplant Recipe, Italian Dinner, Healthy Eggplant Parmesan, Vegetarian Main Dish

Find it online: https://www.mealsmell.com/classic-baked-eggplant-parmesan-recipe/