Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan
This Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a lighter, healthier twist on the classic Italian favorite crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and layered with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella. Made without frying, this easy baked eggplant recipe delivers all the flavor you love with fewer calories, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or meatless Mondays.
Ingredients:
2 medium eggplants, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
Prepare the eggplant: Sprinkle slices with salt and let rest for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
Bread the eggplant: Set up three bowls flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese. Dredge each slice in flour, dip into egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
Bake until crispy: Arrange eggplant slices in a single layer on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Assemble the dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Add half the baked eggplant, then half the mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers.
Final bake: Bake for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad.
Benefits of Baked Eggplant Parmesan:
Healthier than fried baked, not deep-fried
Vegetarian & meatless-friendly
High in fiber from eggplant for better digestion
Lower in calories but still rich and satisfying
Perfect comfort food without the guilt
Great for meal prep, family dinners, or potlucks
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Crispy baked eggplant Parmesan layered with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. A healthy, easy Italian dinner recipe that’s vegetarian, flavorful, and oven-baked not fried.
