Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 2 medium-sized eggplants (about 2 pounds total)
02 - Salt, as needed
03 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
04 - 2 eggs, beaten
05 - 1 cup panko bread crumbs
06 - 1/2 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
07 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
08 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
10 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
12 - 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
13 - 2 tablespoons minced parsley (optional, for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - Move the oven rack to the second from the top position. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Brush 2 tablespoons of olive oil on a large baking sheet and set aside.
02 - Cut the eggplant lengthwise into planks about 1 inch thick. Sprinkle salt on both sides and let sit for at least 30 minutes. Once done, pat the eggplant dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.
03 - In a shallow dish, mix together panko bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs.
04 - Dip each eggplant slice into the eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Then dip it into the bread crumb mixture, coating fully and pressing gently to help crumbs adhere. Place the coated slices on the prepared baking sheet and repeat with remaining eggplant slices.
05 - Place the baking sheet in the oven on the second rack from the top. Bake for 20 minutes, then flip the slices and bake for another 20 minutes, until the eggplant is tender and the breading is golden brown.
06 - Pour about 1/4 cup of marinara sauce over each piece of baked eggplant. Top each piece with shredded mozzarella cheese. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
07 - Turn on the broiler and broil the eggplant for 2-4 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Garnish with minced parsley, if desired, before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Salting the eggplant beforehand draws out excess moisture, which helps achieve a firmer texture.
02 - For easier clean-up, use parchment paper on the baking sheet.

Back