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Baked Eggplant Parmesan

This dish features sliced eggplants baked with a crispy, cheesy topping. The eggplant slices are layered and topped with a mixture of breadcrumbs and cheese, then baked until golden and tender, resulting in a hearty, rustic casserole with a crunchy crust and soft interior.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large eggplants sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 1 cup bread crumbs preferably panko for crunch
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated is best
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup marinara sauce for layering

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Cooking spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the sliced eggplants on a baking sheet and lightly brush both sides with olive oil. Bake for about 20 minutes, until the slices are soft and slightly browned around the edges.
  2. While the eggplants bake, combine the bread crumbs with grated Parmesan cheese in a mixing bowl. Mince the garlic and set aside.
  3. Remove the eggplant slices from the oven and let them cool slightly. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish, then layer the eggplant slices on top.
  4. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the eggplant slices, then spoon more marinara sauce over each layer as you build the casserole.
  5. Add a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the sauce-covered eggplant. Then sprinkle the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture evenly across the surface for a crispy topping.
  6. Bake the assembled dish in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the topping is crunchy and browned.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, scooping out portions with a spoon, and enjoy the crispy topping combined with tender eggplant slices and rich marinara sauce.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, ensure the cheese used is vegetarian-friendly. You can also add fresh basil or crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.