Eggplant Parmesan, a classic Italian-American dish, is comfort food at its finest. The combination of tender fried eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese is simply irresistible. This blog post will guide you through making a delicious Eggplant Parmesan from scratch, ensuring a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.
Choosing and Preparing the Eggplant
Selecting the right eggplant is crucial. Look for firm, shiny eggplants without blemishes. Avoid eggplants that feel spongy or have soft spots. Once you’ve chosen your eggplants, you’ll need to slice them. Aim for about 1/2-inch thick slices. Salting the eggplant slices is a key step; this draws out excess moisture, preventing oil absorption during frying and resulting in a crispier final product. After salting, allow the slices to sit for at least 30 minutes, then pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. 
Breading and Frying the Eggplant
The breading process is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture. A classic breading involves three steps: dredge the eggplant slices in flour, then dip them in beaten eggs, and finally coat them in breadcrumbs. You can use panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy result. Fry the eggplant slices in batches in hot olive oil, ensuring they are golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy eggplant. Remove the fried eggplant slices and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil. 
Making the Marinara Sauce
While your eggplant is frying, prepare your marinara sauce. You can use a store-bought marinara sauce, but making your own from scratch is easy and adds a lot of depth of flavor. A simple marinara usually involves sauteed garlic and onions, crushed tomatoes, herbs like basil and oregano, and seasonings. Remember to simmer the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For a richer sauce, consider adding a little tomato paste. Learn more about making the perfect marinara sauce here.
Assembling and Baking the Eggplant Parmesan
Now comes the fun part! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer the fried eggplant slices, followed by generous spoonfuls of your homemade marinara sauce, and finish with plenty of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the baking dish. Top with extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is heated through. 
You can also check out this video tutorial on assembling the dish.
Serving and Variations
Once baked, let the Eggplant Parmesan rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes it easier to slice. Serve hot, as a main course or as a side dish. There are many variations you can try, such as adding different cheeses, incorporating vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or using a different type of breading. Find more eggplant recipes here.
For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to your marinara sauce. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your preference. This recipe is quite adaptable, so feel free to get creative!
Conclusion
Making Eggplant Parmesan might seem daunting, but with this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to create a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process and the wonderful taste of this classic dish! Don’t forget to share your creations with us! You can find more delicious Italian recipes on our blog. Check out our recipe collection here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of eggplant is best for Eggplant Parmesan? Globe eggplants are ideal because of their size and meaty texture.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce? Absolutely! Using store-bought marinara is a time-saving alternative.
How do I prevent the eggplant from getting soggy? Salting the eggplant slices and patting them dry helps remove excess moisture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can assemble the layers and bake it just before serving for best results. But you can prep most of the ingredients in advance.
What type of cheese works best? Mozzarella is traditional, but you can also use a blend of provolone and parmesan for extra flavor.