It’s a chilly evening, and the aroma of bubbling marinara and melting cheese fills the air, wrapping you in a warm embrace. This comforting Eggplant Parmesan comes together in under an hour, perfectly layering roasted eggplant with tangy marinara and gooey mozzarella. The secret to its success? Using high-quality ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil, creating a dish bursting with flavor.
This recipe is perfect for vegetarians and anyone craving a hearty meal. Impress guests at your next dinner party or enjoy a cozy night in. You can make the marinara sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of crispy, breaded eggplant and creamy mozzarella offers a delightful texture contrast.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese elevates the flavor, making every bite memorable.
- Homemade marinara sauce creates an authentic Italian taste that store-bought can’t match.
- This dish is easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients for a delicious Eggplant Parmesan:
For the Marinara Sauce
- 28 ounce can San Marzano whole tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 7 cloves garlic, peeled and slivered
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 sprig of fresh basil
For the Eggplant
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound Japanese eggplant, unpeeled
- 2 teaspoons Kosher salt, divided
For the Breaded Coating
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1 cup (4 ounces) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
For Assembling
- 2 1/4 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon minced basil for garnish (optional)
Tip 1: San Marzano tomatoes provide superior flavor.
Tip 2: Japanese eggplant is tender and less bitter.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Canned tomatoes can be replaced with crushed ones.
- Olive oil can be substituted with vegetable oil.
- Parmesan cheese can be swapped for Pecorino Romano.
- Italian breadcrumbs can be replaced with panko for extra crunch.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Eggplant Parmesan.
Prepare the Marinara Sauce
Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add slivered garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the undrained tomatoes, salt, and basil. Simmer on low for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Roast the Eggplant
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the eggplant into 1/2-inch rounds and sprinkle each side with Kosher salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then rinse and pat dry. Drizzle with olive oil and arrange on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes until tender and slightly golden.
Prepare the Breaded Coating
Set up a breading station: Place the flour in one bowl, and mix the egg and milk in another. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs with half of the grated Parmesan and black pepper. Dip each eggplant slice first into the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Assemble the Dish
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer half of the breaded eggplant over the sauce, followed by half the remaining marinara and half the mozzarella cheese. Repeat with the remaining eggplant, sauce, and cheese, finishing with the remaining Parmesan on top.
Bake
Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
How to Store It
Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: yes, for up to 3 months if well-wrapped.
Reheat: microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Salt the eggplant well to remove excess moisture and bitterness.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs can be substituted in a pinch.
- Allow the dish to rest before cutting to maintain layers.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside a glass of Chianti or your favorite red wine.
- Enjoy it as a comforting meal for family gatherings or potluck dinners.
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