Irresistible Baked Eggplant Parmesan Recipe to Savor

There’s something truly magical about eggplant parmesan baked to perfection. Picture this: layers of tender, sumptuous eggplant, kissed by the oven’s warmth, sandwiched between rich marinara sauce and gooey cheese. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, a tantalizing invitation that makes your mouth water.

I remember the first time I attempted this dish—it was a cozy Sunday afternoon, and my friends were coming over for dinner. The anticipation was palpable as I layered those vibrant eggplant slices, hoping they’d fall in love with my culinary creation. Spoiler alert: they did! This eggplant parmesan is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy and comfort.

Sharing this recipe with friends led to laughter and compliments all around—nothing warms the heart more than good food shared with loved ones.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Eggplant: Choose firm, glossy eggplants for the best flavor; they should feel heavy for their size.

• Marinara Sauce: A jar of your favorite store-bought sauce works wonders; make sure it’s packed with flavor.

• Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for whole milk mozzarella for that ooey-gooey texture that melts beautifully.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds a salty richness; feel free to use fresh if you want to elevate the dish.

• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil brings a fragrant touch; it really brightens up the flavors in the dish.

• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling and sautéing; it enhances the overall taste.

• Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs add crunch and texture; consider adding herbs to boost flavor even more.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all the flavors beautifully; don’t skimp on these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Eggplant: Start by slicing your eggplant into ¼-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle salt on both sides and let them sit in a colander for about 30 minutes. This helps draw out moisture and bitterness.

Prepare Your Marinara Sauce: While waiting, pour your marinara sauce into a saucepan over low heat. Add fresh basil leaves and simmer gently until warmed through. The aroma will fill your kitchen with Italian delight.

Layering It Up!: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of eggplant slices on top followed by mozzarella cheese and then sprinkle some parmesan cheese.

Bake It Perfectly: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (shiny side down) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, add breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch, and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Let It Rest Before Serving!: Once out of the oven, let your glorious creation rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows all those delectable flavors to meld together beautifully.

This eggplant parmesan baked is not just food; it’s an experience that turns any meal into an occasion worthy of celebration!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by salting the eggplant slices to draw out bitterness, then layer them with sauce and cheese. Bake until bubbly for perfect results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best texture, ensuring it stays crispy.

My first attempt at eggplant parmesan baked was an unforgettable experience. Friends raved about it, and I felt like a culinary rock star when they asked for seconds!

FAQ

How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming soggy?

Salting the eggplant before cooking helps draw out moisture and keeps it firm.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it the day before and bake just before serving for optimal flavor.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

Crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs provide a delightful crunch as substitutes.

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Eggplant Parmesan

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Eggplant Parmesan is a comforting classic that combines tender, roasted eggplant with rich marinara sauce and gooey cheese, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. With layers of flavor and a golden-brown crust, this baked delight is sure to impress family and friends alike. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy vegetables without compromising on taste.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium eggplants (about 1.5 lbs total)
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Slice the eggplants into ¼-inch thick rounds and sprinkle salt on both sides. Let them sit in a colander for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
2. In a saucepan over low heat, warm the marinara sauce with fresh basil until heated through.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, followed by a layer of eggplant slices, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Cover with aluminum foil (shiny side down) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
5. Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 40mg