Parmigiana Di Melanzane (eggplant Parmigiana)

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

Vegetarian Main Course Neapolitan Italian Cuisine Cheesy
Parmigiana Di Melanzane (eggplant Parmigiana)

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • Salt
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 4 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Place the eggplant slices in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 30 minutes to release excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
  3. Dredge each eggplant slice in the flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
  4. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
  5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  6. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices on top of the sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of marinara sauce and cheese on top.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Let the Parmigiana di Melanzane rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Cooking & Preparation

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

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 Paper towels

Serving suggestions

Serve the Parmigiana di Melanzane with a side of crusty bread and a fresh 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