Rustic Eggplant Parmesan

Discover this twist on the classic Eggplant Parmesan featuring crispy baked eggplant slices layered with a rich tomato-basil sauce and creamy mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this dish balances flavors of tangy tomatoes and savory cheese with a satisfying crunch. Ideal for those who love Italian cuisine with a modern touch.

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Serves: 6

Ingredients

2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds

1 tablespoon salt

1 cup all-purpose flour

3 large eggs, beaten

2 cups breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup olive oil

3 cups marinara sauce

1 teaspoon dried basil

8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Place the eggplant slices on a large tray, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.

3. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.

4. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in egg, and coat in breadcrumb mixture.

5. Arrange the breaded slices on the prepared baking sheet, and drizzle with olive oil.

6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crisp.

7. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9x13 inch baking dish and layer half of the eggplant slices, half of the remaining marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella slices.

8. Repeat with a second layer of eggplant, sauce, and mozzarella.

9. Sprinkle dried basil over the top and bake for 30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

10. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Scan for cooking tips & leave a review!

itsonly.recipes/view/rustic-eggplant-parmesan

This recipe is for informational purposes only. Always follow proper food safety practices, cook foods to safe internal temperatures, and store leftovers appropriately. Results may vary.