Description
Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan is the perfect blend of crunch and comfort. Oven-baked breaded eggplant slices are layered with marinara, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, then baked to bubbly perfection. A lighter twist on the Italian classic that skips the frying but keeps all the flavor.
Ingredients
2 medium globe eggplants
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for breading)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for layering)
Olive oil spray
Salt, for sweating the eggplant
Instructions
1. Slice the eggplants into 1/3-inch rounds. Lay them on a paper towel-lined sheet and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 30–45 minutes, then pat dry.
2. Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of panko, Italian breadcrumbs, and 1/3 cup Parmesan.
4. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to ensure coating sticks.
5. Arrange slices on the sheet and spray tops with olive oil. Bake for 20 minutes, flip, then bake another 10–15 minutes until crispy.
6. Lower oven to 375°F. In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, baked eggplant, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat layers.
7. Top with extra cheese and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Always salt and dry the eggplant slices before baking—this prevents sogginess and enhances texture.
For extra crispiness, use a wire rack on your baking sheet to elevate slices while baking.
Add crushed red pepper to the marinara or a layer of fresh basil between slices for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 75mg