Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, a classic Eggplant Parmesan never fails to deliver on flavor and satisfaction. The crispy breaded eggplant layers, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese come together perfectly in this All American Eggplant Parmesan recipe. It’s a hearty and cozy dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious homemade favorite.
Title: All American Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 2 cups breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Slice the eggplants into 1/2 inch rounds. Season each slice with salt and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each eggplant slice into the flour, shaking off any excess, then into the egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat for all slices.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices on top.
7. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and chopped basil. Repeat the layering process, finishing with marinara sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let the Eggplant Parmesan rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan, if desired.
From the crispy texture of the breaded eggplant to the melty cheese and zesty marinara sauce, this All American Eggplant Parmesan recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying your hand at homemade comfort food for the first time, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it with a side of pasta or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal that embodies the essence of home-cooked goodness. Enjoy the layers of flavors and textures in every bite!
