Description
A comforting Italian classic made with layers of tender eggplants, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into rounds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- Olive oil for frying
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Slice the eggplants into rounds, about ½ inch thick.
- Sprinkle salt on the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Rinse the salted eggplants under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, then dip into the eggs, followed by coating with breadcrumbs.
- Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 3–4 minutes each.
- Drain the fried eggplant on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the fried eggplant slices over the sauce.
- Top the eggplant with a third of the marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining eggplant, sauce, and cheeses, finishing with a final layer of sauce and cheese.
- Sprinkle chopped basil on top for added freshness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and lightly golden.
- Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For diabetics, consider using sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit in any additional sauces. Storing leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and freezing for up to 3 months is recommended.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg