Why Make This Recipe

Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a comforting dish perfect for any meal. It’s a vegetarian favorite that brings together layers of rich marinara sauce, gooey cheese, and tender eggplant. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a great way to enjoy eggplants, adding nutrition to your diet.

Making this dish is simple and satisfying. It provides a hearty and warm option that can please both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. With familiar ingredients, it’s easy to whip up for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Equipment Needed for Baked Eggplant Parmesan

Baking sheet
Mixing bowl
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooking brush
Oven

What You Need to Make Baked Eggplant Parmesan

2 large eggplants
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Cook Baked Eggplant Parmesan Step by Step

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
Sprinkle salt on the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Brush each eggplant slice with olive oil, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Arrange a layer of eggplant slices on a baking sheet.
Spread marinara sauce over the eggplants, then add mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Make Baked Eggplant Parmesan

Follow the simple steps above to create this delectable dish. Prepping the eggplant in advance helps to get rid of excess moisture and bitterness. Layering ingredients ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

How to Serve Baked Eggplant Parmesan

Serve Baked Eggplant Parmesan hot from the oven. It’s best to cut it into squares for easy serving. Pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a wholesome meal.

What to Serve with Baked Eggplant Parmesan

This dish goes well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it alongside a light pasta dish to complement the flavors.

How to Store Baked Eggplant Parmesan

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, though it might change texture when reheated.

Tips to Make Baked Eggplant Parmesan

Make sure to salt the eggplants properly to remove excess moisture. Using fresh ingredients will enhance the flavor of your dish. If you want a bit more spice, add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.

Variation

For a twist, consider adding spinach or mushrooms to the layers. You can also use different types of cheese for varied flavors, like feta or gouda.

Best Time to Make Baked Eggplant Parmesan

Baked Eggplant Parmesan is perfect for any time of year, especially in the fall and winter when comfort food is needed. It’s also a great dish for potlucks and family gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid skipping the salting step for the eggplant; it helps reduce bitterness. Also, be careful not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can lead to uneven cooking.

Nutritional Notes

Eggplants are low in calories but high in fiber, making this dish a healthy option. The combination of cheese and marinara sauce provides a dose of calcium and vitamins.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables instead of eggplant?
Yes, zucchini or squash can also work well in this recipe.

Is it necessary to bake the eggplant before layering?
Yes, baking ensures the dish cooks evenly and the eggplant becomes tender.

Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and bake just before serving.

Conclusion

Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a simple yet delightful dish that everyone will enjoy. With straightforward steps and common ingredients, it’s a dish worth making. Gather your ingredients and enjoy the delicious layers of flavors in each bite!

Baked Eggplant Parmesan

A comforting vegetarian dish made with layers of marinara sauce, cheese, and tender eggplant, perfect for any meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 30

Total Time 1

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Eggplant Preparation

2 large eggplants Slice into 1/2-inch thick rounds
Salt For drawing out moisture

Main Ingredients

2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil For brushing eggplant slices
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Pepper To taste

Method

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
Sprinkle salt on the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Assembly and Baking

Brush each eggplant slice with olive oil, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Arrange a layer of eggplant slices on a baking sheet.
Spread marinara sauce over the eggplants, then add mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Ensure to salt the eggplants to remove excess moisture. Using fresh ingredients will enhance the flavor. For a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce. You can also add spinach or mushrooms for variation.