When you think of classic Italian comfort food, Eggplant Parmesan often comes to mind. This beloved dish traditionally involves frying breaded eggplant slices and layering them with marinara sauce and cheese.
But today, we’re giving it a healthier twist by baking the eggplant instead of frying it.
If you’re looking for an easy vegetarian dinner that’s healthy, full of flavor, and simple to prepare, this baked eggplant parmesan recipe is perfect for you.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4–6
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Why Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a Great Choice
Eggplants are a fantastic vegetable to include in your diet. They’re rich in fiber, antioxidants, and a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. When baked, they develop a tender, melt-in-your-mouth consistency that pairs perfectly with marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese.
By opting for baked instead of fried, you cut down on unhealthy fats and calories, making this dish an excellent option for those following a healthy vegetarian recipe plan.
It’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or even entertaining guests. Best of all, you can serve it on its own or pair it with your favorite pasta for a more complete meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find in any grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Baked Eggplant:
- 2 medium-sized eggplants, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan option)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (use whole wheat for a healthier option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray or a light drizzle of olive oil
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Assembly:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or dairy-free cheese for a vegan option)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Eggplant Parmesan
1. Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Eggplant
Eggplants can sometimes have a slightly bitter taste, especially when large. To avoid this, you can “sweat” the eggplant slices by sprinkling them with salt and letting them sit for about 20 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture and bitterness. After 20 minutes, use a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to blot the slices dry.
3. Set Up the Breading Station
In one bowl, whisk the eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan option) until smooth. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Bread the Eggplant Slices
Take each eggplant slice and dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, press the slice into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly. Place the breaded slices onto your prepared baking sheets in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
5. Bake the Eggplant
Lightly spray the tops of the breaded eggplant slices with olive oil or drizzle a small amount of oil over them. This will help them crisp up in the oven. Bake the eggplant slices for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure both sides are golden brown and crispy.
6. Prepare the Marinara Sauce
While the eggplant bakes, prepare the marinara sauce. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.
Stir in the marinara sauce, dried basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Layer the Eggplant Parmesan
Once the eggplant slices are baked to a golden crisp, it’s time to layer the dish. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
Arrange a single layer of baked eggplant slices over the sauce. Spoon more marinara sauce over the eggplant, and then sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat this process until you’ve used up all the eggplant slices, sauce, and cheese, finishing with a final layer of cheese on top.
8. Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Once the Baked Eggplant Parmesan is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan, if desired. Serve it on its own or with your favorite pasta for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Tips for Making the Perfect Baked Eggplant Parmesan
- Use fresh eggplants. Eggplants should feel firm and smooth to the touch. Overripe eggplants can have a spongy texture and may taste bitter.
- Sweat the eggplant slices. This optional step helps remove any bitterness and moisture, allowing the eggplant to become crispy when baked.
- Customize with your favorite cheese. While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer a vegan version.
- Add extra veggies. Feel free to add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini between the layers for added nutrition and flavor.
Health Benefits of Baked Eggplant Parmesan
Baking the eggplant instead of frying it makes this dish a much healthier vegetarian recipe. Eggplants are low in calories and high in fiber, which promotes good digestion and helps keep you full for longer.
They’re also a great source of antioxidants, which protect your cells from damage. Additionally, using whole wheat breadcrumbs and a light hand with the cheese keeps this dish hearty but still healthy.
The marinara sauce provides a good dose of lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes that has been linked to many health benefits, including heart health and reduced cancer risk. Plus, using fresh herbs like basil adds a burst of nutrients and flavor without any added calories.
Conclusion
Baked Eggplant Parmesan is not only a delicious and comforting dish, but it’s also a healthy vegetarian recipe that you can feel good about serving to your family and friends. By baking the eggplant, you maintain all the delicious flavors without the extra calories and fat that come with frying. This easy vegetarian dinner is perfect for weeknights or special occasions, and it pairs beautifully with pasta, salad, or garlic bread. Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or simply looking to include more plant-based meals in your diet, this baked eggplant parmesan will not disappoint.
