Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan

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Golden, cheesy, and layered with a rich marinara sauce, Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a soul-satisfying dish that brings comfort to your dinner table without the deep fryer. With each bite, you get the satisfying crunch of baked—not fried—eggplant, melting mozzarella, and savory Parmesan all nestled in a cozy tomato sauce.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself to a hearty meatless dinner, this dish delivers that Italian-style nostalgia in a healthier way. Best of all, it’s easy to prep ahead, making weeknight meals a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan

This version of eggplant Parmesan skips the excess oil without compromising on texture or flavor. The oven-baked method ensures the eggplant turns out perfectly crisp on the outside and tender inside. It’s a vegetarian-friendly dish that doesn’t feel like a compromise. The combination of breadcrumbs, gooey cheese, and garlicky marinara is pure comfort food bliss.

What Kind of Eggplant Should I Use?

For the best results, use large globe eggplants. They’re the most common variety and are easy to slice into uniform rounds, which bake evenly. Look for eggplants that are firm and shiny with minimal bruising. Avoid any that feel soft or overly heavy with seeds, as these can turn out bitter and spongy when cooked.

Ingredients for the Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan

To create this crispy and cheesy baked dish, you’ll want fresh and flavorful ingredients. Each one plays an important role in building the taste and texture that makes this dish irresistible.

• Eggplant: The star of the show. Sliced thick and baked to golden perfection.
• Salt: Helps draw out moisture and bitterness from the eggplant before baking.
• Eggs: Used to bind the breadcrumbs to the eggplant slices.
• Italian-style breadcrumbs: Provide the crisp texture and seasoned flavor in every bite.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds savory depth and sharpness.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts into that gooey, stretchy layer we all love.
• Marinara sauce: Brings in that tangy tomato richness.
• Olive oil spray: Helps the breadcrumbs crisp up during baking.

How To Make the Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Slice the eggplant into ½-inch rounds and sprinkle both sides generously with salt. Let them sit on a wire rack or paper towel for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry.

Step 2: Bread the Slices

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Set up a breading station with whisked eggs in one bowl and a mixture of Italian-style breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in another. Dip each eggplant slice in the egg, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 3: Bake Until Crispy

Place breaded slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly sprayed with olive oil. Spray the tops of the slices as well and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through until both sides are golden and crisp.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, followed by a layer of baked eggplant, more marinara, shredded mozzarella, and repeat until all slices are used. Finish with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Step 5: Final Bake

Bake the assembled dish at 375°F for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve and Store Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan

This recipe yields enough to serve about 6 people generously. It pairs perfectly with a side salad or over pasta for a more filling option. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. To reheat, use the oven or an air fryer to preserve the crispiness rather than microwaving.

You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Simply let the slices cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat straight from frozen in the oven for best results.

What to Serve With Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan?

Garlic Bread

Warm, crusty garlic bread is a classic choice and perfect for scooping up that extra marinara sauce.

Simple Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine and creamy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the rich eggplant layers.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

This garlicky olive oil pasta is light and balances the hearty flavors of the main dish.

Roasted Broccolini

A pop of green and a hint of char bring both color and freshness to your plate.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Slightly sweet and tangy, these carrots add brightness and depth.

Polenta

Creamy or grilled, polenta is a hearty base that complements the saucy eggplant beautifully.

Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Peppery arugula and citrusy dressing provide zing and crunch.

Antipasto Skewers

A fun and colorful starter that sets the tone for an Italian-inspired meal.

Want More Dinner Ideas?

If this Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan won you over, you might love exploring more of our savory dinner recipes:

• Try these cozy and cheesy Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole if you’re craving pasta meets comfort.
• If you love bold flavor, the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs are bursting with sun-dried tomato and garlic flavor.
• Need something hearty but quick? The Sweet Potato Black Bean Skillet delivers big taste in just one pan.
• For something more nostalgic, the Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits is pure comfort in every bite.
• Or cozy up with the Beefy Stuffed Pepper Casserole for a satisfying, veggie-loaded bake.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you make it gluten-free or sneak in extra cheese? Did your eggplant get perfectly crispy? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinner favorites on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to meals.

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