If you’re craving a dish that combines crispy, tender eggplant with gooey, melty cheese and a rich tomato sauce, then you’re in for a treat with this Cheesy Baked Eggplant Parmesan Recipe. It’s a comforting, flavorful classic that feels both hearty and fresh, perfect for sharing with family or impressing friends at your next dinner. The magic happens with crunchy breaded eggplant rounds layered beneath a blanket of mozzarella and Parmesan, all baked to bubbling perfection. Trust me, once you try this Cheesy Baked Eggplant Parmesan Recipe, it’s going to be a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a crucial role in balancing the flavors and textures of this Cheesy Baked Eggplant Parmesan Recipe. From the lightly spiced breadcrumb coating to the creamy cheese layers, every component builds a mouthwatering masterpiece.
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds: The star of the dish, providing a tender, earthy base that crisps up beautifully when breaded and baked.
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch): Panko gives that desirable crispy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the soft eggplant inside.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: It helps the egg wash stick to the eggplant, ensuring an even breadcrumb coating.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as the adhesive that binds the breadcrumbs and seasoning to each eggplant slice.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory depth that infuses the crust with flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a classic Italian herb aroma that complements the tomato sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Another herb layer that enhances the freshness of the dish.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Provides the tangy tomato base that keeps the layers moist and thrilling to the palate.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The melty, stretchy cheese that makes every bite utterly irresistible.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty notes to intensify the cheesy goodness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Drizzled over the breaded slices for perfect golden crispiness in the oven.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that brings out the flavors harmoniously.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C), so it’s ready for those crispy, cheesy layers to cook evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this step makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your eggplant slices won’t stick.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
Organizing is key here! Place the all-purpose flour in one shallow bowl, the beaten eggs in a second, and mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper in a third. This setup allows you to easily dip each eggplant slice sequentially, coating them perfectly every time.
Step 3: Coat Each Eggplant Slice
Now the fun begins! Take each eggplant round and dip it first into the flour to give it a light dusting. Next, immerse it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press it into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, making sure every side is covered in that flavorful crust. Place the breaded slices on your prepared baking sheet with a little space between each.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Drizzle olive oil evenly over the breaded eggplant—this helps achieve a gorgeous golden brown and crispy texture without frying. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, turning the slices halfway through so both sides develop that irresistible crunch.
Step 5: Layer Your Eggplant Parmesan
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish—this keeps everything moist and flavorful. Add half the baked eggplant slices over the sauce, then sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat with the remaining slices, sauce, and cheese to build those perfect, cheesy layers.
Step 6: Finish Baking Until Melty and Bubbly
Pop the assembled dish back into the oven for 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is beautifully melted, gooey, and bubbling invitingly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the cheese to set slightly.
How to Serve Cheesy Baked Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up this rich dish, fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley add a lovely pop of color and herbaceous flavor. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also elevate the experience for those who enjoy a little heat or silkiness on top.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cheesy Baked Eggplant Parmesan Recipe with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette for refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a side of spaghetti tossed in olive oil and herbs complement the meal making it feel complete without overwhelming the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this delightful recipe straight from the baking dish for a cozy family-style meal, or plate individual portions with a sprig of basil and a small ramekin of extra marinara for dipping. You can even stack the eggplant slices in mini towers drizzled with balsamic glaze for an elevated presentation at dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover leftover Cheesy Baked Eggplant Parmesan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining good flavor and texture ready for an easy reheat.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! To freeze, assemble the dish completely but hold off on baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C), increasing cook time by about 20 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep the breading crisp and cheese melty—avoid the microwave if you can since it softens the texture. About 15 to 20 minutes should do the trick depending on your oven and portion size.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices for that perfect melt and flavor, you can experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a bit of ricotta for creaminess. Just keep cheeses that melt well to maintain the dish’s signature texture.
Is it necessary to bake the eggplant slices before assembling the dish?
Yes, baking the breaded eggplant slices first ensures they become crisp and fully cooked, preventing sogginess later. It also saves time by pre-cooking the eggplant before layering and finishing the bake with the cheese and sauce.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Replace the cheese with your favorite plant-based alternatives, and use a flax egg or aquafaba in place of eggs for breading. Make sure the breadcrumbs are vegan-friendly, and you’ll have a delicious vegan-friendly version of this Cheesy Baked Eggplant Parmesan Recipe.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Fresh herbs work wonderfully and offer a more vibrant flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as you would dried, but fold them into the breadcrumb mixture right before breading so they don’t wilt too much.
What can I do if my eggplants are bitter?
To reduce bitterness, slice the eggplant and sprinkle it with salt, letting it sit in a colander for 30 minutes. Rinse and pat dry before breading. This technique also helps prevent excess moisture, leading to crispier results.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Baked Eggplant Parmesan Recipe is a seriously satisfying dish that brings together crispy textures, rich cheese, and savory herbs in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight or a special occasion, it’s incredibly approachable and sure to win over anyone lucky enough to try it. Roll up your sleeves, grab those eggplants, and get ready to create a crowd-pleaser that all your friends and family will cherish.
Print
Cheesy Baked Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a deliciously crispy and cheesy vegetarian dish featuring breaded eggplant slices baked to golden perfection, layered with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a comforting main course, it combines classic Italian flavors with a healthier baked preparation.
Ingredients
Eggplant and Breading
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauces and Cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to evenly season the coating.
- Bread Eggplant Slices: Dip each eggplant slice first in flour, coating it completely. Then dip into beaten eggs to moisten, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. Lay the breaded slices on the prepared baking sheet.
- First Bake: Drizzle the breaded eggplant slices with olive oil to ensure crispiness. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Assemble Layers: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange half of the baked eggplant slices on top, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over them. Repeat the layering with the remaining eggplant slices, sauce, and cheeses.
- Final Bake: Bake the assembled dish for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving to set.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs in the breading.
- You can substitute mozzarella with a low-fat cheese option to reduce calories.
- Letting the baked dish rest before serving helps the layers set for easier slicing.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before the final baking step.
