Crispy mozzarella eggplant parmesan is a must-try recipe that combines layers of crispy eggplant, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese for a delicious vegetarian dish.
Author:Caroline Jones
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:1 hour
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Baking and Frying
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 large eggplants, sliced into ½-inch rounds
1 tsp salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 large eggs, beaten
2 tbsp milk
2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Vegetable oil, for frying
2 cups marinara sauce
12 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
½ cup shredded mozzarella
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them rest for 20 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels.
Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs and milk, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumbs.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat and fry the eggplant slices for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a greased baking dish.
Arrange the crispy eggplant slices in the dish and top each with a spoonful of marinara, a slice of fresh mozzarella, and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella.
Repeat with another layer if desired, finishing with extra Parmesan cheese.
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Broil for 2 minutes for an extra crispy, browned cheese topping.
Garnish with chopped parsley and fresh basil. Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh Caesar salad.
Notes
Make sure to pat the eggplant dry after salting to remove excess moisture.
For extra flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.