Name: The Best Baked Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants sliced into ½-inch rounds; 1 tablespoon salt for sweating the eggplant; 2 large eggs; 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1½ cups marinara sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil spray; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Looking for a delicious and easy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Baked Eggplant Parmesan! This dish is full of flavor, simple to make, and sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors: The combination of eggplant, marinara sauce, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering dish.
Quick prep time: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready to bake in no time.
Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch of this Baked Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time for easy, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week.

Ingredient Notes:

Medium eggplants sliced into ½-inch rounds: Eggplant adds a meaty texture to this dish and soaks up all the delicious flavors.
Salt for sweating the eggplant: Sweating the eggplant helps remove any bitterness.
Large eggs: Used to coat the eggplant before breading.
Italian-style breadcrumbs: Adds a crispy coating to the eggplant rounds.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor to the dish.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top of the eggplant.
Marinara sauce: Provides a rich and flavorful base for the dish.
Olive oil spray: Helps the breadcrumbs crisp up in the oven.
Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Adds a fresh and aromatic touch to the finished dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Sweat the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
Dip the eggplant slices in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Place the breaded eggplant on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.
Layer the baked eggplant with marinara sauce, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese.
Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Helpful Tips:

Make sure to slice the eggplant evenly for even cooking.
Use a good quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
Feel free to switch up the cheeses for different variations.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Roast the eggplant slices before breading for extra flavor.
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for added depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Baked Eggplant Parmesan with a side salad, garlic bread, or a glass of red wine for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs for this recipe? Yes, feel free to use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this dish.
Can I freeze this dish? While you can freeze Baked Eggplant Parmesan, the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion:

Now that you have the recipe for the Best Baked Eggplant Parmesan, it’s time to get cooking! This dish is sure to become a family favorite, so give it a try and let us know how it turns out. Enjoy!