Description
This Cheesy Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a deliciously crispy and cheesy vegetarian dish featuring breaded eggplant slices baked to golden perfection, layered with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a comforting main course, it combines classic Italian flavors with a healthier baked preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
Eggplant and Breading
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauces and Cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to evenly season the coating.
- Bread Eggplant Slices: Dip each eggplant slice first in flour, coating it completely. Then dip into beaten eggs to moisten, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. Lay the breaded slices on the prepared baking sheet.
- First Bake: Drizzle the breaded eggplant slices with olive oil to ensure crispiness. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Assemble Layers: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange half of the baked eggplant slices on top, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over them. Repeat the layering with the remaining eggplant slices, sauce, and cheeses.
- Final Bake: Bake the assembled dish for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving to set.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs in the breading.
- You can substitute mozzarella with a low-fat cheese option to reduce calories.
- Letting the baked dish rest before serving helps the layers set for easier slicing.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before the final baking step.
