Eggplant (Aubergine) Parmesan (Easy!) Recipe
Overview:
Eggplant Parmesan, a classic Italian dish, is a delightful combination of tender eggplant slices, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. This recipe offers a simple yet delicious take on the traditional favorite, perfect for those looking to enjoy a flavorful vegetarian dish. Whether you’re a fan of eggplant or looking to explore new culinary horizons, this recipe promises to satisfy your taste buds with its savory goodness.
Recipe Details:
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Rating: 5 stars
Dietary Information:
- Calories: 311.7 per serving
- Fat Content: 14.5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 7.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 36.6mg
- Sodium Content: 1030.5mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 31g
- Fiber Content: 8.8g
- Sugar Content: 17.8g
- Protein Content: 15.3g
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 eggplants
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 4 tablespoons parmesan cheese
- Marinara sauce (quantity as desired)
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). |
| 2 | Spray or lightly oil a 9 x 13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking. |
| 3 | Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the prepared pan. |
| 4 | Peel the eggplants and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds. |
| 5 | Arrange half of the eggplant slices in the baking pan, forming a single layer. |
| 6 | Top the eggplant slices with another 1/2 cup of marinara sauce, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese. |
| 7 | Layer the remaining eggplant slices on top, followed by the rest of the marinara sauce. |
| 8 | Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender. |
| 9 | Once the eggplant is cooked, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese over the top. |
| 10 | Return the pan, uncovered, to the oven and broil until the cheese is lightly browned and bubbly, creating a deliciously golden crust. |
| 11 | Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. |
| 12 | Serve your Eggplant Parmesan hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness! |
Tips and Suggestions:
- Adjust Cheese Amounts: Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese according to your preference. If you’re a cheese lover, add a little extra for that indulgent, cheesy goodness.
- Serve with Side Salad: Eggplant Parmesan pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time and refrigerate it. Simply reheat in the oven before serving for a convenient meal option.
- Variation: For a healthier twist, you can bake the eggplant slices instead of frying them before assembling the dish. This reduces the oil content while still retaining the delicious flavor.
Eggplant Parmesan is a versatile dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or casual gatherings with friends and family. With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household, even among those who may not typically enjoy eggplant. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to delight your taste buds with this easy and delicious recipe! 🍆✨
