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Easy Cheesy Eggplant Parmesan

Irresistibly Easy Cheesy Eggplant Parmesan for Comfort Food Lovers

This Easy Cheesy Eggplant Parmesan is a comforting, meatless dish that combines crispy eggplant with rich marinara and gooey cheese.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Eggplant
  • 2 medium Eggplants Fresh, firm eggplants are key for the best texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for drawing out moisture.
For the Breading
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour Use gluten-free flour if needed.
  • 2 large Eggs Binds the breadcrumbs nicely. Swap for aquafaba for a vegan spin.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Panko works wonders for extra crunch.
For the Sauce and Cheese
  • 2 cups Marinara sauce Homemade or store-bought.
  • 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese Consider vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
  • 1/2 cup Grated parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast serves as a great vegan alternative.
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh basil Optional for garnish.
For Frying
  • 1/2 cup Olive oil Traditional choice for frying.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Baking dish
  • shallow dishes for breading
  • paper towels

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Slice fresh eggplants into ¼-inch rounds, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 30 minutes. Rinse and pat dry.
  2. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, then dip in egg, and coat in breadcrumbs.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  4. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Layer a baking dish with marinara, fried eggplant, mozzarella, and parmesan. Repeat and finish with cheese on top.
  5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Let cool for 5 minutes, garnish with basil if desired, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allowing the dish to rest helps the layers set and improves flavor.

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