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eggplant parmesan recipe - Golden brown crispy eggplant parmesan in a baking dish with melted cheese and basil

The Ultimate Crispy Eggplant Parmesan

A foolproof eggplant parmesan recipe that guarantees crispy layers, melted cheese, and a rich tomato sauce without the sogginess.

  • Total Time: PT1H30M
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

2 large Globe eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 large eggs, beaten
24 oz marinara sauce (homemade or high-quality store-bought)
16 oz low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Vegetable oil for frying
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds and lay them on paper towels. Sprinkle generously with salt and let sit for 30-45 minutes to draw out moisture.
Step 2: Rinse the salt off the eggplant slices and pat them thoroughly dry with fresh paper towels.
Step 3: Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of Panko and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Coat each eggplant slice in flour, then egg, and finally the Panko mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
Step 5: Heat 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the eggplant slices in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 7: Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices on top.
Step 8: Top with more sauce, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and some fresh basil. Repeat the layers until all eggplant is used, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan.
Step 9: Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown on top.
Step 10: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the layers to set.

Notes

Always ensure the eggplant is dry before breading. Using Panko instead of traditional breadcrumbs provides a superior crunch that lasts even after baking.

  • Prep Time: PT45M
  • Cook Time: PT45M
  • Category: Main Dishes
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 890mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: eggplant parmesan recipe, crispy eggplant, italian dinner, vegetarian main dish, baked eggplant parmesan

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