Parmigiana Di Melanzane (eggplant Parmesan)

Parmigiana di Melanzane, or Eggplant Parmesan, is a classic Italian dish that features layers of fried eggplant, tomato sauce, and cheese. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends.

Vegetarian Main Course Italian Italian Cuisine Eggplant Cheese Tomato Sauce
Parmigiana Di Melanzane (eggplant Parmesan)

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 4 eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 pound fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place the eggplant slices in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for 30 minutes to release excess moisture.
  3. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
  4. Coat each eggplant slice in flour, dip in the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb and cheese mixture.
  5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  6. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices on top of the sauce, then top with more sauce, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce and mozzarella on top.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Let the Parmigiana di Melanzane rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
45 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Carbohydrates
25g
Protein
15g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Colander Shallow dishes for breading Large skillet 9x13 inch baking dish

Tools

Knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons Baking sheet

Serving suggestions

Serve the Parmigiana di Melanzane with a side of crusty bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a lighter version, you can bake the breaded eggplant slices instead of frying them.

Cost

$15