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Eggplant Parmesan Delight

Crispy Baked Eggplant with Gooey Cheese and Rich Marinara

6servings
1 hr
Intermediate
Worth the slow weekend prepMacros ready to logFeeds a hungry crew
Eggplant Parmesan Delight

About this recipe

Eggplant Parmesan Delight is a modern take on a comforting Italian classic. This dish features baked eggplant slices, layered with marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese, topped with fresh basil for a burst of flavor. Enjoy this healthier version that retains all the delicious flavors of the original.

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • Olive oil spray for baking

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

  2. 2

    Sprinkle eggplant slices with salt and let sit for 30 minutes to release moisture, then pat dry.

  3. 3

    Mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk eggs.

  4. 4

    Dip each eggplant slice into egg mixture, then breadcrumb mixture.

  5. 5

    Arrange eggplant on baking sheets, spray with olive oil, and bake for 18 minutes until golden.

  6. 6

    In a baking dish, layer marinara, roasted eggplant, mozzarella, and basil. Repeat layers.

  7. 7

    Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until cheese melts and bubbles.

  8. 8

    Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Chef's tip

For extra crispiness, switch to panko breadcrumbs. Adjust baking time if needed to achieve your desired texture.

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