20 Italian Eggplant Parmesan Recipe Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Mar 14, 2024
When it comes to classic Italian dishes, eggplant parmesan is a must-try for any food lover. This hearty and flavorful recipe is a staple in many Italian households and is beloved for its layers of crispy eggplant, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. While the dish may seem intimidating to make at first, with the right ingredients and techniques, you can easily recreate this restaurant-worthy dish in the comfort of your own home.
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs, Grated Parmesan
The first recipe on our list is a traditional Eggplant Parmesan dish that stays true to its roots. Thinly sliced eggplant is breaded and fried until crispy before being topped with a rich tomato sauce and layers of gooey melted cheese. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
For those looking for a more authentic Italian twist on this classic dish, look no further than this Italian Eggplant Parmesan recipe. It features a flavorful homemade tomato sauce, seasoned breadcrumbs, and a blend of Italian cheeses. The result is a dish that is bursting with flavor and will transport you straight to the streets of Italy.
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Eggplant Parmesan with Chia Seeds
Main Ingredients: Mozzarella Cheese, Garlic, Basil, Eggplant, Chia Seeds
For a healthier take on the traditional Eggplant Parmesan, try this recipe that incorporates nutrient-rich chia seeds into the breading. The chia seeds add a nutty flavor and provide a boost of protein and fiber. This dish is perfect for those looking to indulge in a guilt-free comfort meal.
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Best Baked Eggplant Parmesan with Italian Sausage Sauce
Main Ingredients: Large Eggplant, Salt, Egg Whites, Gluten, Garlic
This recipe takes the classic Eggplant Parmesan dish to the next level by adding a savory Italian sausage sauce. The combination of the crispy eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and flavorful sausage creates a dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it's all baked together in one dish for easy cleanup.
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Low Carb Eggplant Parmesan Sheet Pan with Italian...
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Salt, Garlic Powder, Ground Black Pepper
If you're following a low-carb diet, you don't have to miss out on the deliciousness of Eggplant Parmesan. This recipe uses thinly sliced eggplant as a substitute for lasagna noodles and is layered with a flavorful Italian sausage and marinara sauce. It's all baked together in a sheet pan for a quick and easy dinner option.
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Baked-Eggplant Parmesan
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Large Eggs, Plain Dry Breadcrumbs, Grated
For a lighter and easier Eggplant Parmesan option, try this recipe that is baked instead of fried. The eggplant is coated in a crisp breadcrumb mixture and then baked until golden brown. It's then topped with a simple tomato sauce and a sprinkling of shredded cheese for a healthier version of this classic dish.
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Chicken Eggplant Parmesan
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Plum Tomatoes, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Crushed
If you're looking to add some protein to your Eggplant Parmesan, consider trying this recipe that uses chicken as the main protein. Thinly sliced chicken is breaded and fried alongside the eggplant before being layered in a casserole dish with the traditional tomato sauce and cheese. It's a hearty and delicious twist on the classic dish.
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Authentic Eggplant Parmesan
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, All Purpose Flour, Vegetable Oil, Large
For those looking for a truly authentic Eggplant Parmesan dish, this recipe stays true to its traditional Italian roots. The eggplant is lightly breaded and fried before being topped with a homemade tomato sauce and a blend of Italian cheeses. It's then baked until bubbly and golden brown for a dish that is sure to impress.
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Baked Eggplant Parmesan
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Egg, Water, Panko Breadcrumbs, Grated
For a simplified version of Eggplant Parmesan, try this recipe that uses a quick and easy baking method. The eggplant is coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture and then baked until golden brown. It's then topped with a flavorful marinara sauce and a sprinkle of cheese for a delicious and fuss-free meal.
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Eggplant Parmesan Subs
Main Ingredients: Crushed Tomatoes, Sweet Onion, Garlic, Dried Oregano
If you're in the mood for a sandwich, why not try a Eggplant Parmesan Sub? This recipe features all the traditional elements of the dish, but it's served on a toasted sub roll for a handheld and satisfying meal. It's perfect for a quick lunch or dinner option.
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Eggplant Parmesan {parmigiana Di Melanzane}
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Eggs, All Purpose Flour, Salt, Pepper
This recipe is a nod to the authentic Italian name for Eggplant Parmesan, parmigiana di melanzane. It features all the classic elements of the dish, including thinly sliced eggplant, a homemade tomato sauce, and a blend of Italian cheeses. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or when you want to impress your dinner guests.
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Eggplant Parmesan Pasta Bake
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Salt, Rigatoni, Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic
If you can't decide between pasta and Eggplant Parmesan, why not have both? This recipe combines the two into a hearty and flavorful pasta bake that is sure to satisfy. The eggplant is breaded and fried before being layered with pasta and a rich tomato sauce. It's all baked together for a delicious and comforting meal.
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Mini Eggplant Parmesan Stacks
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic, Shallot, Kosher Salt
For a fun and unique way to serve Eggplant Parmesan, try this recipe that creates mini stacks of the dish. Thinly sliced eggplant is breaded and fried before being layered with tomato sauce and cheese in small stacks. It's then baked until crispy and golden brown for a cute and tasty twist on the classic dish.
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Sheet Pan Eggplant Parmesan
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Parmesan Cheese, Egg Whites
This recipe is perfect for those looking for an easy and hassle-free way to make Eggplant Parmesan. The eggplant is breaded and baked on a sheet pan alongside the tomato sauce and cheese. This means less mess and less cleanup, without sacrificing any of the flavor.
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Eggplant Parmesan Panini
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Kosher Salt, Bread Crumbs, Dried Parsley
For a satisfying and unique sandwich option, try this Eggplant Parmesan Panini. Thinly sliced eggplant is breaded and fried before being layered with tomato sauce and cheese between two slices of crispy bread. It's then pressed and grilled until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown. It's a delicious and filling lunch or dinner option.
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Eggplant Parmesan Baked Ziti
Main Ingredients: Delallo Penne Ziti, Marinara Sauce, Provolone Cheese
This recipe combines two Italian favorites - Eggplant Parmesan and baked ziti. The eggplant is breaded and fried before being layered with ziti pasta and a rich tomato sauce. It's then topped with a blend of Italian cheeses and baked until bubbly and golden brown. It's the perfect comfort food dish for a cozy night in.
The Perfect Eggplant
Choosing the Right Eggplant
The key to a successful eggplant parmesan dish is choosing the right eggplant. Look for eggplants that are firm, shiny, and have smooth skin. Avoid any that have bruises or soft spots. Additionally, opt for smaller to medium-sized eggplants as they tend to have fewer seeds and are less bitter.
Preparing the Eggplant
Once you have chosen your eggplant, it's time to prepare it for cooking. Begin by slicing the eggplant into 1/4 inch rounds. Then, sprinkle salt on both sides of the slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This process helps to draw out any excess moisture and bitterness from the eggplant. After 30 minutes, rinse the slices and pat them dry with a paper towel.
A Flavorful Tomato Sauce
The Base
A delicious tomato sauce is the backbone of any good eggplant parmesan. To make the sauce, start by sautéing chopped onions and garlic in some olive oil until they become fragrant. Then, add in some diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes for a kick of spice. Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
The Secret Ingredient
To take your tomato sauce to the next level, add a splash of balsamic vinegar. This unexpected ingredient adds a subtle sweetness and tanginess that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the dish.
The Cheesy Layers
The Cheese Blend
No eggplant parmesan is complete without a generous amount of melted cheese. For the perfect blend, mix together equal parts of shredded mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta cheese. This combination creates a creamy and gooey layer that binds all the other ingredients together.
Assembly Time
To assemble the dish, start by spreading a layer of tomato sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Then, add a layer of the sliced eggplant, followed by a layer of the cheese blend. Repeat this process until you have used all your ingredients, making sure to end with a layer of cheese on top.
Baking to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven at 375°F for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Final Thoughts
In just a few simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering Italian eggplant parmesan dish that is sure to impress. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh garden salad for a complete and satisfying meal. With this recipe in your arsenal, you can enjoy all the flavors of Italy right in your own kitchen.
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