Savor the Flavor of Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan Today!

Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a delightful twist on the classic Italian-American comfort food. By baking the eggplant instead of frying, you can enjoy all the flavors of this beloved dish with a lighter, crispier texture. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian main course or a crowd-pleasing side, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.

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The Benefits of Baking Eggplant Parmesan

Traditionally, eggplant parmesan is made by frying thin slices of eggplant and then layering them with tomato sauce and cheese before baking. While this method is undoubtedly delicious, it can also be quite heavy and calorie-dense. By baking the eggplant instead, you can achieve a similarly crispy texture without all the added oil and fat. This not only makes the dish healthier, but it also allows the natural flavors of the eggplant to shine through more prominently.

Understanding the Eggplant

Eggplants are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that are a staple in many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a great addition to a balanced diet. When selecting eggplants for this recipe, look for ones that are firm, heavy for their size, and have a smooth, shiny skin. Avoid eggplants with blemishes or wrinkled skin, as they may be past their prime.

One important step in preparing eggplant for Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan is to “sweat” the slices. This involves sprinkling the eggplant with salt and letting it sit for 20-30 minutes. This process helps to draw out any bitterness and excess moisture, resulting in a crispier texture when baked.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Eggplant:

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 tablespoon salt for sweating the eggplant

For the Coating:

• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for drizzling

For Assembly:

• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

The quality of the ingredients you use can make a big difference in the overall flavor and texture of your Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan. Opt for high-quality panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan, and a flavorful marinara sauce to really elevate the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Eggplant: Sprinkle the eggplant slices with the 1 tablespoon of salt and let them sit for 20 minutes. This helps to draw out any bitterness and excess moisture. Pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels.
3. Make Coating: In one bowl, beat the eggs with the 1 tablespoon of water. In another bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, and dried basil.
4. Coat Eggplant: Dip the eggplant slices in the egg mixture, then coat them with the breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated eggplant slices on the prepared baking sheets and drizzle them with the 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
5. Bake Eggplant: Bake the eggplant for 20–25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Assemble: Spread 1/2 cup of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the baked eggplant slices on top, then add more sauce and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining eggplant, sauce, and mozzarella.
7. Bake & Serve: Bake the assembled Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Baked Zucchini Parmesan
• Stuffed Eggplant Boats
• Classic Lasagna with Eggplant

FAQs about Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan

How to make crispy eggplant in the oven?

The key to achieving crispy eggplant in the oven is to first sweat the eggplant slices by sprinkling them with salt and letting them sit for 20 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture. Then, be sure to pat the eggplant slices dry thoroughly before coating them in the breadcrumb mixture and baking. Flip the eggplant halfway through the baking time to ensure even crisping.

How to keep eggplant parm from getting soggy?

To prevent your Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan from getting soggy, be sure to thoroughly sweat the eggplant slices and pat them dry before coating and baking. Additionally, use a flavorful marinara sauce that isn’t too watery, and be cautious not to over-layer the dish, as this can lead to sogginess. Baking the assembled casserole for the right amount of time is also crucial to achieve the perfect texture.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making eggplant parmesan?

Some common mistakes to avoid when making Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan include:

• Not sweating the eggplant slices – this can lead to a watery, soggy final dish.
• Overcrowding the baking sheets – the eggplant needs space to crisp up properly.
• Using a watery or thin marinara sauce – opt for a flavorful, thick sauce instead.
• Overbaking the assembled casserole – this can cause the eggplant to become mushy.

What’s the difference between eggplant parmesan and eggplant parmigiana?

Eggplant parmesan and eggplant parmigiana are essentially the same dish, just with slightly different names. Both refer to the classic Italian-American layered casserole made with breaded and baked eggplant, tomato sauce, and cheese. The terms are often used interchangeably, though “eggplant parmesan” is more commonly used in the United States, while “eggplant parmigiana” is the traditional Italian name for the dish.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious and healthier twist on a classic comfort food. By baking the eggplant instead of frying, you can enjoy all the flavors and textures of this beloved dish without the added fat and calories. With a few simple tips, like sweating the eggplant and using high-quality ingredients, you can create a crispy, flavorful Eggplant Parmesan that will quickly become a new family favorite. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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