Easy Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

Eggplant Parmesan is a comforting dish that brings the warmth of Italian cuisine into your kitchen. This Easy Eggplant Parmesan Recipe takes just over an hour to prepare and cook, making it a perfect weekday dinner option. With layers of crispy eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a satisfying meal that will impress both family and friends.

This recipe is ideal for vegetarians and anyone looking for a hearty, homemade dinner. It’s perfect for a cozy family meal or to serve at a gathering. You can prep the components in advance and assemble them just before baking for an easy yet delicious dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy eggplant slices provide a satisfying crunch.
• The rich tomato sauce is bursting with flavor.
• Layers of melted mozzarella cheese create a gooey texture.
• Easily customizable with additional herbs or spices.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

For the Eggplant

• 2 pounds eggplant, cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 3/4 cup flour*
• 3 eggs

For the Cheese Mixture

• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 cup plain panko (or purchased or homemade breadcrumbs)
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano, divided
• 1 3/4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided

For the Sauce

• 28 ounces fire roasted crushed tomatoes*
• 2 garlic cloves, grated
• 1 handful fresh basil, chopped, plus more to garnish
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Assembly

• 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese***

*Fire-roasted tomatoes enhance flavor.
*Use any shredded cheese as a substitute.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Eggplant can be swapped with zucchini.
• Panko can be replaced with regular breadcrumbs.
• Fresh basil can be replaced with dried basil.
• Whole milk mozzarella can be substituted with part-skim mozzarella.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create a delightful Eggplant Parmesan:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Prepare the Eggplant

Cut off the ends of the eggplant and cut it into 1/2-inch slices (to make approximately 18 slices). Sprinkle with 3/4 teaspoon salt divided between the slices, and allow them to sit for 10 minutes while you prepare the breading ingredients. (Don’t wipe off any salt or extra moisture.)

Set Up Breading Stations

Place the flour on a plate. Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl and set it aside. In another shallow bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, 2 teaspoons oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and set it aside.

Bread the Eggplant

Dip both sides of each eggplant slice into the flour, then the eggs, then the Parmesan cheese mixture. Place each slice onto the prepared baking sheets. (Note: This gets messy; you may need to wash or wipe your fingers off after every few slices.)

Bake the Eggplant

Place the trays in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Then flip and bake 10 to 15 minutes more, until tender and golden brown.

Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, mix the fire roasted tomatoes, grated garlic, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, chopped fresh basil, and olive oil. Mix well until all the olive oil is incorporated.

Assemble the Dish

Remove the eggplant from the oven. Spread 1 cup of the tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9 x 13″ pan. Add half the baked eggplant in a layer (about 9 slices), then top with 1 cup tomato sauce and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Add the second layer of eggplant (we like to add them right on top of the first layer to make 9 stacks). Top with another 1 cup tomato sauce and 1 cup shredded mozzarella on each stack. Top with the remaining 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake Until Golden

Bake for 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and browned. Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then top with additional chopped basil and serve. Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 days (or frozen for 3 months); reheat in the oven until warm.

Tips for Best Results

• Allow eggplant to sit with salt for moisture.
• Use fire-roasted tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Layer cheese to ensure gooeyness throughout.
• Let the dish rest before serving for better slicing.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad for added freshness.
• Pair with garlic bread for a classic touch.
• Enjoy with a glass of red wine for an Italian feast.