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Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan Slices

A comforting dish featuring layers of crispy baked eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 50 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 1300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Eggplant
  • 2 medium medium eggplants, sliced Look for firm eggplants with smooth skin.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Drizzle over the eggplant slices before baking.
  • salt Salt to taste Use for salting the eggplant before baking.
  • pepper Pepper to taste Add to the breadcrumb mixture.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Panko can be used for extra crunch.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Can be swapped for Pecorino Romano.
  • 2 eggs Beaten for the coating step.
For Layering
  • 1 cup marinara sauce Consider using homemade or spicy arrabbiata.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Fresh mozzarella can be used for a creamier texture.
Optional Garnish
  • Fresh basil For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice the eggplants into even rounds and sprinkle both sides with salt; let them sit for about 30 minutes.
Rinse and Dry Eggplant
  1. After 30 minutes, rinse the slices under cool running water to remove excess salt and pat dry thoroughly.
Prepare Coating Mixture
  1. In one bowl, beat the eggs, and in another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
Coat Eggplant Slices
  1. Dip each eggplant slice in the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Bake Eggplant Slices
  1. Drizzle olive oil over the coated slices and bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Layer and Bake with Cheese
  1. In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, baked eggplant slices, and shredded mozzarella, repeating and finishing with mozzarella on top.
Final Bake
  1. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Garnish and Serve
  1. Allow to cool slightly before serving, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze individual slices wrapped in foil for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.