Indulge in the flavors of classic Italian comfort with this healthier twist on Baked Eggplant Parmesan! Perfectly crispy, oven-baked eggplant slices are layered with rich marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella, and savory parmesan cheese to create a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Featuring a simple breading process with seasoned breadcrumbs and baked instead of fried for a lightened-up approach, this recipe is bursting with flavor without the grease. Fresh basil adds a final aromatic touch, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or special gatherings. With its golden, cheesy topping and tender eggplant layers, this easy-to-make casserole is a wholesome, vegetarian delight that’s sure to impress.
Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Lay them on a baking sheet lined with paper towels and sprinkle both sides generously with salt. Let sit for 30 minutes to release moisture. Rinse the slices and pat them dry with paper towels.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and spray lightly with olive oil.
Set up a breading station with three separate bowls: flour in the first bowl, beaten eggs in the second bowl, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and black pepper in the third bowl.
Dip each eggplant slice into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Arrange the breaded slices onto the prepared baking sheets.
Lightly spray the tops of the eggplant slices with olive oil spray. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until they are golden brown and crisp.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange half of the baked eggplant slices in a single layer over the sauce.
Top the eggplant layer with another 1 cup of marinara sauce and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese. Repeat with the remaining eggplant slices, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan.
Bake the assembled dish, uncovered, in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the Baked Eggplant Parmesan cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Serving size | 2543.7 grams (2543.7g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 2289 |
Total Fat 104.40g | 134% |
Saturated Fat 51.10g | 256% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g | |
Cholesterol 794mg | 265% |
Sodium 11937mg | 519% |
Total Carbohydrate 208.80g | 76% |
Dietary Fiber 48.60g | 174% |
Total Sugars 64.70g | |
Protein 136.20g | 272% |
Vitamin D 159IU | 796% |
Calcium 2773mg | 213% |
Iron 14mg | 77% |
Potassium 3619mg | 77% |
Source of Calories