Classic Eggplant Parmesan is a beloved Italian dish that combines layers of tender, breaded eggplant with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The best part? It can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire.

If you’ve never had Classic Eggplant Parmesan before, you’re in for a treat. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch from the crispy eggplant, balanced with the savory flavors of tomato and the creaminess of mozzarella. It’s a hearty dish that even non-vegetarians will love, making it perfect for any occasion.

Discovering Classic Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan stands out as a cherished dish in Italian cuisine. This delightful meal features layers of tender, breaded eggplant interspersed with rich marinara sauce and plenty of melted cheese.

A comforting choice for family dinners and social gatherings, its preparation can be done ahead of time. This makes it a staple for home cooks who appreciate both flavor and convenience. Each serving not only pleases the palate but also warms the heart, making it a favorite at any table.

Creating the Perfect Layers

At the core of Eggplant Parmesan is the meticulous layering of ingredients. The breaded eggplant becomes the star, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the thick sauce and creamy cheese.

After baking, the top layer achieves a golden hue, lending a rustic charm to the dish. This combination of textures and flavors results in a comforting experience that is both inviting and hearty.

Choosing Quality Ingredients

The success of this dish relies heavily on the quality of ingredients used. Fresh, plump eggplants are essential for achieving the right texture and flavor. Only the best marinara sauce will do, as it adds depth to the overall taste.

A mix of cheeses, including mozzarella and Parmesan, contributes to the rich, gooey texture that defines Eggplant Parmesan. Fresh basil leaves, when used, add a pop of flavor that elevates the dish even further.

Mastering the Breaded Eggplant

The process of breading the eggplant is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. Each slice of eggplant is first salted to draw out moisture, ensuring crispiness after baking.

Creating a breading station with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs allows for an even coating on each slice. The right technique here will yield a beautifully golden exterior once baked.

Assembly and Baking

Once the eggplant is prepped, it’s time to assemble the dish. Spreading a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish sets the foundation for stacking the eggplant, followed by generous layers of cheese.

Repeating this process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of sauce and cheese, ensures a harmonious blend of flavors. After baking, the dish should be bubbly and golden, promising an indulgent experience.

Serving and Enjoying

Allowing the Classic Eggplant Parmesan to rest slightly before serving enhances its flavor and makes for easier slicing.

When plated, this dish is often garnished with fresh basil, adding an exquisite touch. Paired with a light salad or crusty bread, Eggplant Parmesan is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, inviting everyone to savor each delicious bite.

Delicious and Satisfying Classic Eggplant Parmesan

This Eggplant Parmesan is a satisfying dish featuring layers of breaded and baked eggplant slices, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses. It’s beautifully golden on top, with a melty interior that creates a warm and comforting experience for your taste buds.

Ingredients

2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
Salt for draining eggplant
2 cups breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned or plain)
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 large eggs, beaten
4 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant: Sprinkle salt generously on the sliced eggplant and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
Bread the Eggplant: Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
Bake the Eggplant: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
Assemble the Dish: In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, followed by a layer of baked eggplant, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and cheese on top.
Bake and Serve: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Let cool slightly before serving.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutrition Information

Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 350kcal
Fat: 20g
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 30g