This classic Italian dish, Eggplant Parmesan, is a cheesy and flavorful dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Layers of breaded eggplant, marinara sauce, and melted cheese make this dish a standout. It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to prepare, but the result is well worth the effort. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful recipe as a main course or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants
- 2 cups bread crumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the eggplants into 1/2 inch thick rounds.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
- Dip each eggplant slice into the flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat them with bread crumbs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides.
- Drain the fried eggplant slices on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices on top of the sauce.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped basil, and parsley over the eggplant.
- Repeat the layers until all the eggplant slices are used, ending with a layer of cheese and herbs.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!