Delicious & Affordable Family Meals: Eggplant Parmesan

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of our “Eggplant Parmesan,” a classic Italian dish that transforms humble eggplants into a melty, cheesy masterpiece. This recipe layers thinly sliced and breaded eggplant with marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Join us as we delve into the art of crafting this delectable family dinner that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients:

For the Breaded Eggplant:

  • 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs (Italian-seasoned for extra flavor)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 eggs, beaten
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying

For Assembling:

  • 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare the Eggplant:
    • Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch rounds. Sprinkle each slice with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels.
  3. Bread the Eggplant:
    • In one bowl, place the breadcrumbs. In another bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese with a bit of black pepper.
    • Dip each eggplant slice into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the eggplant to adhere.
  4. Fry the Eggplant:
    • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides. Place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  5. Assemble the Layers:
    • In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Place a layer of fried eggplant slices on top. Add a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
  6. Bake to Melty Perfection:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the eggplant is tender.
  7. Garnish and Serve:
    • Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
  8. Slice and Enjoy:
    • Slice the Eggplant Parmesan into squares or wedges. Serve hot and enjoy the melty goodness.
  9. Pair with Pasta or Salad:
    • Serve the Eggplant Parmesan on its own or over a bed of pasta. A side salad complements this dish beautifully.
  10. Savor the Delectable Dinner:
    • Gather your family around and savor the delectable delight of Eggplant Parmesan. The crispy texture of the breaded eggplant, layered with marinara and gooey cheese, creates a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a family dinner.

With “Eggplant Parmesan,” you’ve not only crafted a delectable family dinner but also celebrated the magic of transforming eggplants into a melty masterpiece. This recipe is a testament to the joy of classic Italian comfort food. Enjoy the layers of flavor and the melty, cheesy goodness with your loved ones. Here’s to the pleasure of hearty family dinners and the warmth of shared meals!

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