Description
Rich and cheesy Eggplant Parmesan made with layers of roasted eggplant, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese. Perfect for a comforting meal!
Ingredients
- 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.
Instructions
- 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!
Notes
- Salting the eggplant helps to reduce bitterness and draw out excess moisture, yielding better texture.
- Whenever possible, use fresh mozzarella and homemade marinara for the best flavor.
- Ensure even distribution of cheese and sauce in layers for a balanced flavor in every bite.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Vegetarian
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Eggplant, Parmesan, Cheese