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Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan Delight

crispy baked eggplant parmesan - featured image

A comforting and crispy baked eggplant parmesan recipe that delivers a golden crust without frying, layered with marinara and melty cheese for a perfect dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large globe eggplant, sliced into ½-inch rounds
  • Salt, for drawing out moisture
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin recommended
  • ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 ½ cups (150g) seasoned Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 ½ cups (about 170g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cups (480ml) marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. Slice the eggplant into ½-inch thick rounds, sprinkle both sides generously with salt, and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry thoroughly.
  2. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Lightly brush each eggplant slice with olive oil on both sides. Dredge in flour, shake off excess, dip into beaten eggs, then press into breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
  4. Arrange coated slices on a wire rack over a baking sheet or directly on parchment paper. Lightly brush tops with olive oil.
  5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake eggplant slices for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
  6. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Layer half the baked eggplant slices, cover with more sauce, sprinkle half the mozzarella, then repeat layers.
  7. Bake assembled dish at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Salting the eggplant and letting it drain is key to avoid sogginess. Use a wire rack for even crispiness. Flip slices halfway through baking. Reheat leftovers in the oven to maintain crispness. Variations include gluten-free, vegan, low-carb, and spicy options.

Nutrition

Keywords: eggplant parmesan, baked eggplant, crispy eggplant, Italian dinner, vegetarian, easy dinner recipe, comfort food