Eggplant Parmesan with Extra Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion! This rich and savory dish is layered with tender slices of eggplant, zesty marinara sauce, and a generous amount of gooey, melted cheese. It’s a hearty vegetarian meal that is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet delicious enough to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients for Eggplant Parmesan with Extra Cheese
How to Make Eggplant Parmesan with Extra Cheese
Tips for Making Eggplant Parmesan with Extra Cheese
Make-Ahead Instructions
Storing Leftovers
Freezing
Reheating
Serving Suggestions
FAQs
Try these Eggplant Parmesan with Extra Cheese related recipes next!
Best Veggie Lasagna
Classic Caprese Salad
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Vegetarian Fettuccine Alfredo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Indulgent Flavor: With layers of cheesy goodness combined with savory eggplant and rich marinara sauce, this dish is bursting with flavor that will satisfy any palate!
Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish with a side salad or as a flavorful appetizer; it’s perfect for any gathering or occasion!
Simple to Make: Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward. You can enjoy homemade Eggplant Parmesan without complex techniques!

Ingredients for Eggplant Parmesan with Extra Cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Eggplant: Sliced into rounds; this is the star ingredient that gives the dish its name. Choose medium-sized eggplants for best results.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite variety for a rich flavor base. Homemade or store-bought works great!
Shredded Mozzarella: The gooey, stretchy cheese that gives the dish its cheesy character. More cheese means more flavor!
Grated Parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty flavor when sprinkled between the layers and on top.
Olive Oil: To brush onto the eggplant slices before baking; provides moisture and helps with roasting.
Breadcrumbs: For added texture on top; choose seasoned for extra flavor.
Fresh Basil: Chopped leaves for garnish, providing a fresh flavor contrast to the cheese and sauce.

How to Make Eggplant Parmesan with Extra Cheese

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly with oil.
Slice the eggplant into rounds and lay them out on a paper towel. Lightly salt the slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
After 30 minutes, pat the eggplant slices dry and brush both sides with olive oil. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes, turning halfway, until tender.
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Create a layer of eggplant slices on top.
Sprinkle some mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the eggplant layer, followed by another layer of marinara. Repeat this process until you’ve used all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs and a drizzle of olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let the Eggplant Parmesan cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil before enjoying!

Tips for Making Eggplant Parmesan with Extra Cheese

Salting Eggplant: Salting the eggplant helps to reduce bitterness and draw out excess moisture, yielding better texture.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh mozzarella and homemade marinara for the best flavor.
Layer Wisely: Ensure even distribution of cheese and sauce in layers for a balanced flavor in every bite.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Prepare the layers of eggplant with marinara and cheese in advance, cover with foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
You can also completely assemble the dish up to a day ahead and simply pop it in the oven before serving.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Eggplant Parmesan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Eggplant Parmesan with Extra Cheese

Cover portions of Eggplant Parmesan securely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
Make sure to consume within 3 months for the best quality and flavor.

Reheating Eggplant Parmesan with Extra Cheese

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and cheese is melty again, about 20-25 minutes.
You can microwave individual servings, but oven reheating will maintain better texture.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Bread – A perfect side to scoop up that marinara sauce!
Caesar Salad – Light and crunchy to complement the richness of the dish.
Grilled Vegetables – A healthy side that adds color and nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses?

Yes! You can add other cheeses like gouda or provolone for different flavor profiles.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your marinara is free of gluten.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Is Eggplant Parmesan healthy?

While it’s hearty, making it with less cheese or using whole grain breadcrumbs can help make it healthier!

Can I prepare it in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the dish in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.