Eggplant Parmesan Recipe – Classic Italian Comfort Food

Eggplant Parmesan Recipe – Few dishes capture the heart of Italian comfort food quite like a warm, cheesy Eggplant Parmesan Recipe. Known in Italy as Melanzane alla Parmigiana, this beloved dish combines layers of tender eggplant, rich tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and fragrant Parmesan cheese — baked together until bubbly and golden.

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This recipe is the ultimate comfort meal: hearty yet meatless, elegant yet rustic. The secret lies in perfectly cooked eggplant slices — lightly breaded, crisped to golden perfection, and nestled between layers of homemade marinara and creamy cheese. It’s a dish that satisfies both vegetarians and traditional Italian food lovers alike.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Active Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Cuisine: Italian / Mediterranean
Course: Main Course / Dinner
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: Approximately 410 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Eggplant:

• 2 large eggplants (about 2 pounds), sliced into ¼-inch rounds

• Salt – for sweating the eggplant

• All-purpose flour – ½ cup

• Eggs – 2 large, beaten

• Breadcrumbs – 1½ cups (Italian-seasoned preferred)

• Grated Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup

• Olive oil – for frying or baking

For the Sauce:

• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons

• Onion – 1 small, finely chopped

• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced

• Crushed tomatoes – 1 can (28 oz)

• Tomato paste – 1 tablespoon

• Dried basil – 1 teaspoon

• Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon

• Red pepper flakes – ¼ teaspoon (optional)

• Salt and pepper – to taste

For Assembling:

• Shredded mozzarella cheese – 2 cups

• Grated Parmesan cheese – ½ cup

• Fresh basil leaves – for garnish

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or frying pan

• Medium saucepan

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Mixing bowls

• Baking sheet (if roasting eggplant)

• Whisk or tongs

• Paper towels

 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Slice the eggplants into even ¼-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle both sides lightly with salt and place them on a paper towel-lined tray. Let them sit for about 20–30 minutes.

This “sweating” process draws out excess moisture and any bitterness. After resting, pat each slice dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Stations

In three shallow bowls:

1. Add flour to the first bowl.

2. Beat eggs in the second bowl.

3. Combine breadcrumbs and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese in the third bowl.

Step 3: Cook the Eggplant

Option 1 – Frying (Classic Style):
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry eggplant slices for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Option 2 – Baking (Lighter Version):
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush lightly with oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and golden.

Step 4: Prepare the Marinara Sauce

In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Eggplant Parmesan

Lower oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start layering:

1. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom.

2. Add a single layer of cooked eggplant slices.

3. Sprinkle a handful of mozzarella and a spoonful of Parmesan.

4. Add another layer of sauce, then repeat the layers (eggplant → cheese → sauce).

Finish with a final layer of sauce and mozzarella on top.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Cover the dish loosely with foil (to prevent cheese from over-browning) and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving — this helps the layers set beautifully.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves and a light dusting of Parmesan before serving.

Enjoy hot with garlic bread, spaghetti, or a crisp green salad for a complete Italian meal.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with buttered spaghetti or penne pasta for a hearty meal.

• Add a fresh garden salad with balsamic dressing for balance.

• Pair with garlic bread or bruschetta.

• For wine lovers, a glass of Chianti or Pinot Noir complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Conclusion

The Eggplant Parmesan Recipe is a timeless Italian masterpiece that transforms humble ingredients into something truly special. With layers of crispy eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that defines comfort and tradition.