Eggplant Parmesan: Ultimate Cheesy Meltdown

Every time I make Eggplant Parmesan, I’m reminded of the warmth of my grandmother’s kitchen, where the rich aroma of eggplants roasting in the oven filled the air. As a child, I watched with eager anticipation as she transformed simple ingredients into a dish that was both comforting and celebratory. Eggplant Parmesan was more than just a meal; it was a cherished tradition that brought our family together.

My grandmother’s recipe was a masterpiece of flavors and textures, balancing the earthy richness of eggplant with the savory tang of tomato sauce and the creamy melt of mozzarella. This dish was an integral part of our family gatherings, where stories were shared, laughter echoed, and bonds were strengthened over this delicious creation. Eggplant Parmesan was a testament to her love and the joy of home-cooked meals.

As I carry on this tradition in my own kitchen, I strive to capture the essence of those cherished moments. The process of making Eggplant Parmesan is a labor of love, requiring attention to detail and a passion for creating something special. It’s a dish that has evolved over time, yet remains rooted in the simple pleasure of sharing good food with those you care about.

In this recipe, I aim to bring the comforting flavors of Eggplant Parmesan to your table, hoping to inspire you to create your own memories and connections. By following this recipe, you too can experience the joy of transforming humble ingredients into a dish that delights the senses and warms the heart.

Eggplant Parmesan

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• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 58 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Learn how to make a delicious Eggplant Parmesan with our easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. Click here now!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large eggplants, cut into 1/4-inch-thick rounds
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 60 ml (1/4 cup) almond milk
• 355 g (1 1/2 cups) panko breadcrumbs
• 150 g (1 1/4 cups) grated vegetarian hard cheese, divided
• 2 tsp (10 ml) dried oregano
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh thyme leaves
• 5 g (1/2 tsp) red pepper flakes
• 5 g (1/2 tsp) sea salt, plus more for sprinkling
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for drizzling
• 794 g (28 oz) Tomato Sauce
• 2 large fresh mozzarella balls, thinly sliced
• 80 ml (1/3 cup) fresh basil leaves

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Instructions

1. Set your oven to 400°F and prepare two baking trays by covering them with parchment paper.
2. In a medium shallow bowl, combine the beaten eggs and almond milk with a whisk.
3. In a separate shallow bowl of similar size, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, 1 cup of the grated vegetarian hard cheese, oregano, thyme leaves, red pepper flakes, salt, and a few turns of freshly ground black pepper.
4. Coat each eggplant round by first dipping in the egg mixture, then covering with the breadcrumb mixture. Arrange the coated slices on the prepared baking trays, lightly drizzle with vegetable oil, and bake them for 18 minutes until they are soft and have a golden hue.
5. In a baking dish measuring either 8×12 inches or 9×13 inches, spread a half-cup of tomato sauce, lay down half of the baked eggplant slices, and cover with 1 cup of tomato sauce and half of the sliced mozzarella. Repeat the layering with the rest of the eggplant, remaining tomato sauce, and remaining mozzarella. Sprinkle the top with the last ¼ cup of the grated vegetarian hard cheese, add a light drizzle of vegetable oil, and sprinkle a bit more sea salt. Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted thoroughly. Change the oven setting to broil and broil the dish for 2 to 4 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
6. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

• To achieve extra crispy eggplant slices, try baking them on a wire rack instead of directly on the baking tray.
• Enhance the flavor by adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Make this recipe vegan-friendly by substituting eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg replacement.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 38 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 15g

Keywords: eggplant parmesan, crispy eggplant, baked mozzarella, vegetarian casserole, Italian dinner

Mastering Classic Eggplant Parmesan

Fundamentals

Eggplant Parmesan, a classic Italian-American dish, is beloved for its layers of tender eggplant, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey cheese. The key to a successful Eggplant Parmesan lies in mastering a few fundamentals. Start by selecting large, firm eggplants, which will yield thick, satisfying slices. These slices serve as the foundation of the dish, absorbing flavors while maintaining their structure.

Understanding the role of each ingredient is crucial. The panko breadcrumbs offer a crispy coating, while the vegetarian hard cheese provides a savory depth. Tomato sauce adds acidity and moisture, balancing the richness of the cheese. Fresh mozzarella, with its creamy texture, enhances the dish’s indulgence, while fresh basil brings a bright, aromatic finish.

Preparation/setup

Preparing your ingredients properly ensures the best results. Begin by cutting the eggplants into ¼-inch-thick rounds, which allows them to cook evenly and achieve the perfect texture. Prepare a coating station with a bowl for the egg mixture and another for the breadcrumb mixture, which includes panko, grated cheese, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, sea salt, and black pepper.

Once your ingredients are ready, preheat the oven to 400°F and line two baking trays with parchment paper. This setup helps in achieving a golden, crispy finish on the eggplant rounds. Drizzle them lightly with vegetable oil before baking to enhance their color and flavor. While the eggplant bakes, prepare your baking dish with tomato sauce and arrange the mozzarella slices, ensuring everything is within reach for swift assembly.

Crafting the Perfect Eggplant Parmesan

Technique

Begin by coating each eggplant slice in the beaten egg and almond milk mixture. This step is crucial for ensuring the breadcrumbs adhere properly. Carefully press the eggplant rounds into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. This technique creates a crispy outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the tender eggplant inside.

Bake the breaded eggplant slices for 18 minutes, checking for a soft and golden finish. The baking process not only cooks the eggplant but also melds the flavors of the coating into the vegetable. This step is essential for achieving a light, crispy texture without the need for excessive frying.

Tips/tricks

To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch more salt to the breadcrumb mixture. This subtle adjustment can make a significant difference in taste. Also, when layering your Eggplant Parmesan, start with a base of tomato sauce to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Layer the eggplant, tomato sauce, and mozzarella twice for a balanced distribution of ingredients.

Bake the assembled dish until the cheese is thoroughly melted, then switch to a broil setting. This final step gives the cheese a golden, bubbly finish, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor. Watch closely to prevent burning, and remember to garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for a burst of freshness.

Perfecting Your Eggplant Parmesan

Perfecting results

Achieving perfection in Eggplant Parmesan requires attention to detail and a willingness to adapt. Taste each component individually to ensure the seasoning is balanced, and adjust as needed. The right amount of seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the eggplant and complements the richness of the cheese.

For a more personalized touch, experiment with variations. Swap the vegetarian hard cheese with another hard cheese like Romano for a sharper flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, increase the red pepper flakes in the breadcrumb mixture. These small adjustments can elevate your Eggplant Parmesan and tailor it to your preferences.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your eggplant turns out soggy, ensure you are slicing it to the recommended thickness and baking it long enough to achieve a firm texture. Excess moisture can be removed by lightly salting the eggplant slices and letting them sit for a few minutes before coating. This process draws out excess water, improving the final texture.

For those seeking variety, consider adding layers of roasted zucchini or bell peppers. These additions offer a delightful contrast in flavor and texture. If you love zucchini, you might also enjoy these Zucchini Parmesan Melts with Garlic Ricotta, which provide a similar satisfying experience.

Serving and Storing Eggplant Parmesan

Serving/presentation

When serving Eggplant Parmesan, presentation is key. Arrange the slices neatly on a serving platter, allowing the golden cheese and vibrant tomato sauce to shine. Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and a hint of aromatic sweetness. This final touch enhances the visual appeal and flavor profile of the dish.

Pair your Eggplant Parmesan with a simple green salad or a side of crusty bread. For those who enjoy pasta, a serving of One Pot Parmesan Pasta complements the dish beautifully. These sides provide a balanced meal that highlights the rich, comforting nature of the Eggplant Parmesan.

Pairings/storage

For a hearty meal, consider pairing Eggplant Parmesan with a flavorful pasta dish like One Pot Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This combination brings together the best of Italian-inspired flavors, creating a satisfying dining experience.

To store leftovers, allow the Eggplant Parmesan to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. When reheating, use an oven to maintain the dish’s texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the eggplant soggy.

Conclusion

Eggplant Parmesan is a timeless dish that brings together rich flavors and comforting textures in a harmonious blend. By mastering the fundamentals and using the right techniques, you can create a delicious meal that captures the essence of home cooking.

This recipe offers versatility, allowing for personal touches and variations that cater to different tastes. Whether you stick to the classic version or explore new ingredients, Eggplant Parmesan remains a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.

Embrace the joy of making Eggplant Parmesan from scratch, and enjoy the satisfaction of sharing a meal that embodies warmth and tradition. As you perfect your skills, consider exploring other delightful recipes like Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini Rounds for more culinary inspiration.

FAQs – Eggplant Parmesan