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Crispy eggplant parmesan with marinara sauce and bubbling melted mozzarella

Crispy Eggplant Parmesan

Golden crispy breaded eggplant layered with rich marinara and bubbling melted mozzarella. The ultimate Italian vegetarian dinner that even dedicated meat-eaters request again and again.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large eggplants about 2 lbs total, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt for drawing out moisture — do not skip
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs beaten
  • 2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • olive oil for frying
  • 2-3 cups quality marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella
  • 4 oz fresh mozzarella torn into pieces
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves

Method
 

  1. Arrange eggplant slices in a single layer on paper towels. Sprinkle both sides generously with kosher salt. Let sit for 30 to 45 minutes — you will see beads of moisture forming on the surface. Rinse briefly under cold water and pat completely dry.
  2. Set up three shallow bowls: flour seasoned with salt and pepper in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, and oregano in the third.
  3. Working one slice at a time, dredge in flour shaking off excess, dip in egg, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture coating both sides completely. Place on a clean rack.
  4. Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry eggplant in batches without crowding, 2 to 3 minutes per side until deep golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  5. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish.
  6. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant, spoon sauce over the top, scatter fresh basil, and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella. Repeat this layering once more. Top with remaining sauce, torn fresh mozzarella, and Parmesan.
  7. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until cheese is bubbling and lightly golden. Rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Nutrition

Calories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 22gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 920mgPotassium: 480mgFiber: 6gSugar: 10g

Notes

Salting and pressing the eggplant is not optional — it removes excess moisture that causes sogginess. The assembled dish can be refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking. Eggplant parmesan freezes beautifully for up to 2 months.

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