Eggplant parmesan baked is the ultimate comfort food that sends your taste buds on a delightful spiral of rich flavors and gooey textures. Picture this: layers of tender, golden-brown eggplant, lavishly coated in marinara sauce, and topped with bubbling cheese that oozes like a warm hug. Each bite brings a burst of flavor that dances on your palate, making you wonder how something so simple can be so incredibly satisfying.
This dish isn’t just for fancy dinner parties or Sunday feasts; it’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a cozy night in or looking to impress guests, eggplant parmesan baked is sure to steal the show. I still remember the first time I made it for my friends; their eyes lit up as they took the first bite, and I knew I’d stumbled upon something magical.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Eggplant parmesan baked is easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners
- It’s packed with flavor from fresh herbs and spices, making it irresistible
- The vibrant layers make it visually stunning on the table and it’s versatile enough to serve with pasta or crusty bread
I once whipped up this dish for a potluck, and my friends devoured it faster than I could say “pass the garlic bread.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Eggplants: Choose firm, glossy eggplants for optimal flavor; they should feel heavy for their size.
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Marinara Sauce: Use homemade or your favorite store-bought variety; look for options without added sugar.
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Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for high-quality mozzarella that melts beautifully; consider buffalo mozzarella for extra creaminess.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds depth; avoid pre-grated varieties for the best flavor.
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Fresh Basil: Fresh basil leaves elevate the dish with aromatic notes; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to enhance flavors while frying the eggplant slices.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all the delicious flavors in every layer of your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure! Follow these simple steps to create your very own eggplant parmesan baked masterpiece.
Slice the Eggplants: Begin by slicing the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Arrange them on paper towels and sprinkle with salt to draw out excess moisture. Let them sit while you prepare other ingredients.
Fry or Bake the Eggplant Slices: If frying, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry each slice until golden brown on both sides—about 3-4 minutes per side. Alternatively, bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a lined baking sheet until crispy.
Prepare Your Marinara Sauce Layer: In a saucepan over low heat, warm your marinara sauce until bubbling gently. Stir in freshly chopped basil leaves for an aromatic touch that will infuse your dish with freshness.
Layer Up!: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the fried or baked eggplant slices evenly over the sauce. Then sprinkle half of both cheeses—mozzarella and Parmesan—over the eggplant.
Add More Layers!: Repeat by adding another layer of marinara sauce followed by the remaining eggplant slices and top with more cheese. Finish with one last generous layer of marinara sauce and sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. The aroma will be utterly irresistible!
Now you’re ready to serve this luscious eggplant parmesan baked! Take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing so everything holds together beautifully.
Enjoy this delightful dish with crusty bread or a light salad for balance. You might even want to keep some leftovers (if there are any) because it tastes even better the next day!
You Must Know
- Mastering eggplant parmesan baked not only delights your taste buds but also impresses dinner guests
- The layers of eggplant, cheese, and sauce create a symphony of flavor that’s hard to resist
- Plus, it’s a dish that warms the soul on a chilly evening
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by salting the eggplant to draw out moisture. Then bake or fry until golden before layering with sauce and cheese for the ultimate dish.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for varied flavors and textures.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover eggplant parmesan baked in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results, maintaining that crispy topping.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect eggplant parmesan baked, slice the eggplant evenly to ensure uniform cooking
- Use high-quality marinara sauce for rich flavor enhancement
- Don’t skip letting it rest before serving; this helps flavors meld beautifully
I still remember the first time I made eggplant parmesan baked for my family. They were blown away by its cheesy goodness and begged me to make it every week!
FAQ
Can I use frozen eggplant slices?
Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before using.
What can I serve with eggplant parmesan baked?
Serve it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a replacement in the recipe.
Eggplant Parmesan Baked
Eggplant Parmesan Baked is the ultimate comfort dish that combines layers of golden-brown eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and bubbling cheese. This hearty, satisfying meal is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting friends. Each mouthful offers a delightful medley of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it’s a go-to recipe that brings warmth to your table.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants (about 1.5 lbs), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sprinkle sliced eggplants with salt and let sit on paper towels for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Rinse and pat dry the eggplant slices.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry each slice until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side). Alternatively, bake on a lined sheet at 400°F (200°C) until crispy.
- Warm marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat; stir in half of the chopped basil.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the marinara sauce, then half of the fried eggplants, followed by half of both cheeses. Repeat layers ending with sauce and remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the dish (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
