19 The Best Italian Eggplant Parmesan Recipe Prepare To Be Amazed!
Published on: Mar 18, 2024
Italian eggplant parmesan is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. With its layers of crispy eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, it's no wonder why this recipe has stood the test of time. If you're looking to make the best Italian eggplant parmesan, look no further. We have the perfect recipe for you that will have your family and friends begging for more.
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs, Grated Parmesan
Eggplant parmesan is a classic Italian dish that combines layers of breaded and fried eggplant with rich tomato sauce and creamy melted cheese. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for serving to a crowd or enjoying as a cozy weeknight dinner. Here are 16 delicious variations of this beloved dish that will have you saying "mamma mia!"
This traditional version of eggplant parmesan stays true to its Italian roots with a simple yet flavorful combination of eggplant, marinara sauce, and parmesan cheese. The eggplant is typically breaded and fried before being layered with the sauce and cheese, creating a crispy and gooey texture that is hard to resist.
3of 16
Eggplant Parmesan with Chia Seeds
Main Ingredients: Mozzarella Cheese, Garlic, Basil, Eggplant, Chia Seeds
For a healthier twist on this classic dish, try incorporating chia seeds into your eggplant parmesan. Not only do chia seeds add a satisfying crunch to the dish, but they also provide a boost of nutrients and healthy fats. Simply sprinkle them on top of your layers before baking for a nutritious and delicious meal.
4of 16
Best Baked Eggplant Parmesan with Italian Sausage Sauce
Main Ingredients: Large Eggplant, Salt, Egg Whites, Gluten, Garlic
For a heartier and more flavorful version of eggplant parmesan, try adding a layer of Italian sausage sauce in between the eggplant and cheese layers. The sausage adds a deliciously savory element to the dish, making it a great option for meat-lovers.
5of 16
Low Carb Eggplant Parmesan Sheet Pan with Italian...
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Salt, Garlic Powder, Ground Black Pepper
If you're watching your carb intake, try making this low-carb version of eggplant parmesan. Instead of breaded and fried eggplant, this recipe calls for roasted eggplant slices layered with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasonings. It's a lighter and healthier take on the classic dish.
6of 16
Baked-Eggplant Parmesan
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Large Eggs, Plain Dry Breadcrumbs, Grated
If you're looking for a simpler and less messy way to make eggplant parmesan, try this baked version. Instead of frying the eggplant, it is simply baked in the oven before being layered with sauce and cheese. This method still results in a delicious and satisfying dish, without all the extra work and clean-up.
7of 16
Authentic Eggplant Parmesan
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, All Purpose Flour, Vegetable Oil, Large
For those who want to stay true to the traditional Italian way of making eggplant parmesan, this authentic recipe is for you. With a simple combination of eggplant, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese, this dish is sure to transport you to the streets of Italy.
8of 16
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, try incorporating chicken into the dish. Whether you grill, bake, or fry the chicken, it adds a delicious and satisfying element to the meal. Plus, the combination of chicken and eggplant is a match made in heaven.
9of 16
Eggplant Parmesan Subs
Main Ingredients: Crushed Tomatoes, Sweet Onion, Garlic, Dried Oregano
If you're a fan of sandwiches, you'll love this variation of eggplant parmesan. Instead of layering the ingredients in a casserole dish, they are piled onto a sub roll and baked in the oven. The result is a delicious and portable version of this classic dish.
10of 16
Baked Eggplant Parmesan
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Large Eggs, Almond Flour, Freshly Grated
For a healthier and easier way to make eggplant parmesan, try this baked version. Instead of frying the eggplant, it is simply baked in the oven before being layered with sauce and cheese. This method still results in a delicious and satisfying dish, without all the extra calories and mess.
11of 16
Eggplant Parmesan {parmigiana Di Melanzane}
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Eggs, All Purpose Flour, Salt, Pepper
For a true taste of Italy, try making this traditional parmigiana di melanzane, or eggplant parmesan. This recipe calls for frying the eggplant slices before layering them with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. It's a labor of love, but the end result is worth it.
12of 16
J Dub’s Eggplant Parmesan
Main Ingredients: Large Eggplant, Marinara, Kosher Salt, Fresh Basil
This unique version of eggplant parmesan incorporates a layer of creamy ricotta cheese in between the eggplant and tomato sauce layers. This adds a deliciously rich and creamy element to the dish that takes it to the next level.
13of 16
Sheet Pan Eggplant Parmesan
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Parmesan Cheese, Egg Whites
If you're looking for an easy and efficient way to make eggplant parmesan, try this sheet pan version. Instead of layering the ingredients in a casserole dish, they are spread out on a sheet pan and baked in the oven. This method allows for even cooking and less clean-up.
14of 16
Eggplant Parmesan Panini
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Kosher Salt, Bread Crumbs, Dried Parsley
If you're a fan of grilled sandwiches, you'll love this eggplant parmesan panini. Instead of using bread, the eggplant slices are grilled before being layered with tomato sauce, cheese, and any other toppings of your choice. It's a delicious and creative way to enjoy this classic dish.
15of 16
Lightened-Up Eggplant Parmesan
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic Cloves, Herb
For a healthier version of eggplant parmesan, try this lightened-up recipe. Instead of frying the eggplant, it is baked in the oven before being layered with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. It's a guilt-free way to enjoy this indulgent dish.
16of 16
Eggplant Parmesan Baked Ziti
Main Ingredients: Delallo Penne Ziti, Marinara Sauce, Provolone Cheese
If you're a fan of both eggplant parmesan and baked ziti, why not combine the two? This recipe takes the classic flavors of eggplant parmesan and incorporates them into a baked ziti casserole. The result is a delicious and comforting meal that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
Why Our Recipe Stands Out
Using Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients are key to making the best Italian eggplant parmesan. Our recipe calls for ripe, juicy tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. By using these high-quality ingredients, you'll be able to taste the difference in every bite.
Properly Preparing the Eggplant
Properly preparing the eggplant is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Many recipes call for salting the eggplant slices to remove any bitterness and excess moisture. However, we take it a step further by also lightly frying the slices before layering them in the dish. This extra step ensures that the eggplant is crispy and not soggy.
Layering Technique
The way you layer the ingredients can make or break an eggplant parmesan dish. Our recipe calls for a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom, followed by a layer of eggplant, then another layer of sauce, and finally a layer of cheese. We repeat this process until all the ingredients are used up. This layering technique ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and the cheese is evenly distributed.
Baking to Perfection
The final step to achieving the best Italian eggplant parmesan is baking it to perfection. We recommend baking the dish for 30 minutes covered with foil and then an additional 15 minutes uncovered. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese to get perfectly melted and bubbly.
Ready to Try It Out?
Now that you know the key elements to making the best Italian eggplant parmesan, it's time to put it into action. Follow our recipe and impress your family and friends with this delicious and authentic Italian dish. Serve it with a side of pasta and a glass of red wine for the ultimate dining experience. We guarantee that this recipe will become a staple in your household.