Fried Eggplant Parmesan is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish that combines layers of crispy, golden-brown fried eggplant with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a comfort food staple that’s sure to please your family and friends. With its crispy exterior and savory layers, it’s hard to resist seconds!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will fall in love with this Fried Eggplant Parmesan not just for its comforting flavors but also for its versatility. The crispy fried eggplant brings a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, melted cheese and zesty marinara sauce. Plus, it’s an easy dish to whip up on a weeknight or serve at a gathering. Whether you’re a meat lover or a vegetarian, this dish fits seamlessly into a variety of diets, offering a hearty yet wholesome meal.
Tips and Tricks
To make this Fried Eggplant Parmesan your own, consider these tips and tricks:
- Salt Your Eggplant: Before frying, sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture and bitterness. Rinse and pat dry before breading.
- Double Breading: For an extra crispy layer, try double breading your eggplant slices. Dip them in the egg wash, coat in breadcrumbs, dip again in egg, and finally coat once more in breadcrumbs.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the eggplant. If it’s too cool, the eggplant will absorb more oil and become soggy.
- Homemade Marinara: If time allows, making your own marinara sauce will elevate this dish. Fresh herbs and high-quality tomatoes can make all the difference.
Make Ahead Tips
This recipe can be made ahead of time in several ways:
- Eggplant Preparation: Salt and prepare the eggplant slices up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Assemble Ahead: You can layer the eggplant, marinara, and cheese in a baking dish up to a day ahead. Just cover with foil and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
- Freezing: If you want to prepare the dish even further in advance, you can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) Eggplant Parmesan. It will stay fresh for up to three months. Just remember to adjust the baking time if cooking from frozen.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your Fried Eggplant Parmesan with these variations:
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to your marinara sauce for a kick.
- Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh basil or oregano into the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
- Different Cheese: Swap the mozzarella for provolone or even a vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free option.
- Baked Instead of Fried: For a lighter version, you can bake the eggplant slices instead of frying them. Just brush them with olive oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden.
How to Serve
Once your Fried Eggplant Parmesan is ready, serve it hot from the oven, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. Presentation is key; serve it in a rustic dish for a homey feel, allowing the vibrant colors of the tomatoes and melted cheese to shine.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a glass of Chianti or a light, crisp Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully. A refreshing iced tea or a homemade lemonade can also balance the richness of the dish. As for dessert, consider serving a light fruit sorbet or a classic tiramisu to finish off the meal on a sweet note.
How to Store
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to freeze leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They will stay fresh for up to three months. When reheating, do so in the oven to maintain the crispiness—simply cover with foil to avoid over-browning.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need the following kitchen tools to make this Fried Eggplant Parmesan:
- Deep Fryer or Cast Iron Skillet: For frying the eggplant.
- Baking Dish: For assembling and baking the dish.
- Three Shallow Dishes: For the breading station (flour, egg wash, breadcrumbs).
- Paper Towels: For draining excess oil after frying.
Dietary Adaptations
This recipe can easily be adapted for various dietary needs:
- Vegan: Replace the egg wash with a mixture of flour and water or a plant-based milk substitute. Use vegan cheese instead of mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and ensure your marinara sauce is also dairy-free.
- Nut-Free: The recipe is inherently nut-free, but always check the ingredients in your breading and marinara sauce for any hidden nuts.
Seasonal Adaptations
Modify the ingredients based on the season:
- Summer: Use fresh heirloom tomatoes for your marinara sauce and add fresh basil for a burst of flavor.
- Fall: Incorporate roasted pumpkin or butternut squash into the marinara for a seasonal twist.
- Winter: Opt for canned tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available, adding in winter herbs like thyme to enhance flavor.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen eggplant?
A: It’s best to use fresh eggplant, but if you must use frozen, ensure it’s thawed and thoroughly drained before breading.
Q: How long does it take to fry the eggplant?
A: Fry each slice for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Q: Can I make this ahead and freeze it?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the dish and freeze before baking for up to three months. Just adjust your baking time when cooking from frozen.
How To Make fried eggplant parmesan recipe
Fried Eggplant Parmesan
Fried Eggplant Parmesan is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish that combines layers of crispy, golden-brown fried eggplant with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- Salt (for salting the eggplant)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Olive oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggplant: Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them rest for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
- Set Up Breading Station: Set out three shallow dishes. Place flour in the first dish, beaten eggs in the second, and breadcrumbs in the third.
- Bread the Eggplant: Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Set aside on a wire rack.
- Fry the Eggplant: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the eggplant slices in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce, followed by a layer of fried eggplant, a sprinkle of both cheeses, and repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce and cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil and serving hot.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 601Total Fat 22gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 139mgSodium 1510mgCarbohydrates 75gFiber 10gSugar 17gProtein 27g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Fried Eggplant Parmesan is not just about enjoying a meal, but about sharing a comforting, heartwarming experience with loved ones. This recipe is versatile enough to adapt to different tastes and dietary needs, making it a perfect addition to any dinner table. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, each bite is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the cooking begin!
