Eggplant Parmesan, or Melanzane alla Parmigiana, is one of the most beloved Italian baked eggplant dishes. Made with layers of crispy fried eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is a perfect comfort meal.
In this detailed Eggplant Parmesan recipe, you'll learn how to make the best version with easy-to-follow steps, pro tips, and common mistakes to avoid.
Slice the eggplants into ¼-inch rounds and place them on a wire rack.
Sprinkle both sides with salt and let them sit for 30 minutes (this removes excess moisture and prevents sogginess).
Rinse the slices under water and pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
Set up three separate bowls:
Bowl 1: Flour
Bowl 2: Beaten eggs (or milk for egg-free)
Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper
Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip it in the egg, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Fry the eggplants for 2-3 minutes per side (until golden and crispy).
Place fried eggplants on a paper towel-lined plate (to drain excess oil).
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute (until fragrant).
Pour in crushed tomatoes, then add basil, salt, sugar, and red pepper flakes.
Simmer for 15 minutes (until the sauce thickens).
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices, followed by more tomato sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella & parmesan.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes (until cheese is melted and bubbling).
Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy warm!
Servings 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Pair your Eggplant Parmesan with:
✔️ Rosemary Focaccia Bread – Soft and herby, perfect for soaking up sauce.
✔️ Italian Chopped Salad – Crisp romaine, cherry tomatoes, olives, and balsamic dressing.
✔️ Sautéed Garlic Spinach – A light, healthy contrast to the cheesy dish.
Welcome to my little corner of the internet, where I share my passion for cooking and baking. Ever since I was a kid, I've loved experimenting in the kitchen, creating dishes that bring people together. I'm not a professional chef, just a self-taught foodie who believes the best meals are simple, tasty, and made with love. From comforting desserts to savory dinners, I hope my recipes inspire you to enjoy the magic of homemade cooking.
I’m so grateful you stopped by to check out my recipes. I hope they bring joy to your kitchen. Feel free to share your experience in the comments. Happy cooking!
