Lighter Baked Eggplant Parmesan (Printer-Friendly)
Tender baked eggplant slices layered with marinara, mozzarella, and a crisp Parmesan crust.
# What You'll Need:
→ Eggplant
01 - 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
02 - 1 tablespoon salt
→ Breading
03 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
04 - 3 large eggs, beaten
05 - 1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
06 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
08 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
→ Assembly
09 - 2 cups marinara sauce
10 - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
11 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
13 - Fresh basil leaves for garnish
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly coat with oil.
02 - Arrange eggplant slices on a wire rack or paper towels, sprinkle both sides with salt, and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry completely.
03 - Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and black pepper.
04 - Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip into beaten eggs, then coat evenly with breadcrumb mixture. Place breaded slices on prepared baking sheets.
05 - Drizzle or brush olive oil over eggplant slices. Bake for 20 minutes, flip each slice, then bake an additional 10 minutes until golden and crisp.
06 - Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Layer half the eggplant slices, top with sauce and half the mozzarella. Repeat layers and finish with Parmesan cheese.
07 - Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden crust.
08 - Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It feels like a secret indulgence that is lighter yet still hearty and comforting.
- This became a favorite because even picky eaters can't resist the crispy, cheesy layers.
02 -
- Salting the eggplant slices and letting them rest is a step that transforms texture completely, making the difference between mushy and perfect.
- Discovering that flipping the slices halfway through baking boosts the crunchiness changed the whole game for me.
03 -
- If you have time, letting the breadcrumb coating rest a few minutes before baking tightens the crust wonderfully.
- Using a mix of fresh and dried herbs in the breading can add layers of flavor you never expected.