Irresistible Baked Eggplant Parmesan Recipe for Comfort Food

The aroma of eggplant parmesan baked wafts through the air, inviting you to dive into a bubbling dish of cheesy goodness. Each bite reveals layers of tender eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

I recall the first time I made this delightful dish for my family; their eyes lit up with joy as the cheesy masterpiece emerged from the oven. Perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Nothing beats the excitement when friends gather around the table, eagerly anticipating that first forkful of eggplant parmesan baked.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Eggplant: Choose firm, glossy eggplants without blemishes for the best texture and flavor.

• Marinara Sauce: Opt for a high-quality jarred sauce or homemade for richer flavors.

• Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Use fresh mozzarella for its creamy texture and delightful meltability.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan to enhance flavor and add that irresistible crust.

• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil adds a fragrant touch that brightens the dish beautifully.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances richness and depth in every layer.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors in your ingredients.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a crunchy topping that contrasts wonderfully with the soft layers beneath.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep the Eggplant:

Slice your eggplant into ¼-inch rounds and sprinkle them lightly with salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture, which helps prevent sogginess.

Cook the Eggplant:

Rinse off the salt from your eggplant slices and pat them dry with paper towels. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides.

Layer It Up!:

In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked eggplant slices over it, followed by half of the fresh mozzarella slices and some grated parmesan cheese.

Add More Flavor!:

Repeat layering by adding another layer of marinara sauce followed by remaining eggplant, mozzarella, parmesan cheese, and finish with fresh basil leaves scattered on top.

Topping Time!:

In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and some salt. Sprinkle this crispy mixture generously over your assembled dish—trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Bake to Perfection!:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover your baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Now just let it cool slightly before serving; trust me—it’s hard to resist diving right in! Enjoy every cheesy bite of this comfort food classic!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect results, slice the eggplant, salt it to draw out moisture, and then bread it before baking until golden brown. Assemble with sauce and cheese before a final bake.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this dish by adding roasted garlic, fresh basil, or swapping mozzarella for provolone. You can also sneak in layers of spinach for extra nutrients.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover eggplant parmesan baked in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm and bubbly for the best taste.

Cooking this dish reminds me of a family gathering where my aunt made her famous eggplant parmesan baked. Everyone kept asking for seconds, and I felt like a kitchen rock star that day.

FAQ

Can I make eggplant parmesan baked ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it beforehand, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

What kind of eggplant should I use?

Choose globe eggplants for the best texture; they have fewer seeds and cook evenly.

How do I know when the eggplant is done baking?

The eggplant should be tender and golden brown on top after about 25-30 minutes in the oven.

Print

Eggplant Parmesan Baked

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Eggplant Parmesan Baked is a comforting, cheesy dish that layers tender eggplant with rich marinara sauce and creamy mozzarella. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe combines vibrant flavors and textures to create a delightful meal that will leave your family and friends craving more.

• Author: Ethan Carter
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium eggplants (about 1 lb each)
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Slice eggplants into ¼-inch rounds, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides.
3. In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, half of the eggplant, half of the mozzarella, and some grated Parmesan.
4. Repeat the layering process with remaining ingredients, finishing with fresh basil on top.
5. Combine panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the dish.
6. Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes covered with foil, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 40mg