eggplant parm casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best eggplant parm casserole recipe

I love eggplant parm casserole recipe because it is a hearty and satisfying dish that never fails to impress my family.

It’s a classic Italian-American recipe that has been passed down through generations, and its rich flavors and textures are a testament to the power of simple yet effective home cooking techniques.

The key to this recipe is in the layering of flavors and textures – the tender eggplant slices, the rich tomato sauce, the creamy melted mozzarella cheese, and the crunchy breadcrumbs all come together to create a truly unforgettable taste experience.

One of the things I appreciate most about this recipe is its versatility – it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or even a special occasion like Christmas dinner.

And as an added bonus, it’s also incredibly easy to make ahead and reheat for a convenient yet impressive meal.

Eggplant Parmesan Casserole

4.6 from 719 votes

A comforting and flavorful casserole featuring breaded eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese. Perfect for a hearty dinner.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Eggplant

1 large eggplant
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
2 cups breadcrumbs
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder

For the Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
1 small onion
2 cloves garlic

For the Topping

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh basil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2Slice the eggplant into 1/2-inch rounds.
3Salt the rounds and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
4Pat them dry with a paper towel.
5Set up a breading station with three bowls.
6In the first bowl, place the flour.
7In the second bowl, beat the eggs.
8In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
9Dip each eggplant slice in the flour, then the egg, and finally the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each slice is fully coated.
10Place the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
11Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggplant is golden brown and crispy.
12Flip the slices halfway through the cooking time.
13While the eggplant is baking, prepare the sauce.
14In a large pan, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil over medium heat until softened and fragrant.
15Add the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
16In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
17Arrange a layer of baked eggplant slices over the sauce.
18Spoon half of the remaining sauce over the eggplant, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
19Repeat with another layer of eggplant, sauce, and cheese.
20Top with fresh basil.
21Bake the casserole in the preheated oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
22Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Oven
Large pan

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 7g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Watch Video Of How Eggplant Parmesan Casserole Works

This eggplant parm casserole recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it’s easy to make ahead and reheat for a convenient yet impressive meal. Simply assemble the dish as instructed, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate or freeze until ready to serve.

When reheating, make sure to cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out. Serve hot with a side of pasta or garlic bread for an authentic Italian-American experience.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Eggplant Parmesan Casserole

Q1: What is eggplant parm casserole?

Eggplant parm casserole is a classic Italian-American dish that consists of sliced eggplant layered with tomato sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and breadcrumbs.

Q2: Can I use fresh or frozen eggplant for this recipe?

Yes, you can use either fresh or frozen eggplant for this recipe. If using fresh eggplant, make sure to slice it thinly so it cooks evenly. If using frozen eggplant, thaw it first before slicing.

Q3: How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming too soggy?

To prevent the eggplant from becoming too soggy, make sure to salt it before slicing and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step is crucial in achieving a crispy exterior and a tender interior.

Q4: Can I substitute mozzarella cheese with another type of cheese?

While mozzarella cheese is traditional in this recipe, you can substitute it with other cheeses like parmesan or provolone if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Q5: How long does this casserole take to prepare?

This casserole takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare, including slicing the eggplant, making the tomato sauce, and assembling the dish.

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