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Classic Eggplant Parmesan: The Ultimate Recipe

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A timeless Italian comfort dish featuring crispy breaded eggplant slices layered with savory marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and aromatic Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • Salt, for sweating the eggplant
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
  • Olive oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Lay eggplant rounds on towels, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 30-45 minutes to sweat. Rinse and pat dry.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara in a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  3. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup Parmesan, oregano, and dried basil.
  4. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in egg, and coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
  5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry eggplant in batches until golden brown (3-4 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
  6. Layer the dish: sauce, fried eggplant, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat layers until finished, ending with cheese on top.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Notes

  • Do not skip the sweating process as it removes bitterness and prevents the dish from becoming soggy.
  • Ensure the oil is hot before frying to prevent the eggplant from absorbing too much grease.
  • Letting the dish rest after baking is crucial for clean slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: Classic Eggplant Parmesan, Italian Recipe, Eggplant Recipe, Vegetarian Dinner, Baked Eggplant

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