Irresistible Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan is that dish that dances on your taste buds like a jubilant Italian grandmother at a wedding. Imagine layers of crispy, golden-brown breaded eggplant, gooey mozzarella cheese, and rich marinara sauce all coming together in a symphony of flavor and comfort. gourmet chicken piccata This culinary masterpiece doesn’t just please the palate; it wraps you in a warm embrace that feels like home, no matter where you are.

Picture this: It’s Sunday afternoon, and the aroma of bubbling cheese fills the air while you gather with family around the dining table. As laughter echoes and stories unfold, Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan steals the show as everyone eagerly digs in. It’s not just food; it’s a memory maker, perfect for family dinners or those cozy evenings when you want to impress someone special without breaking a sweat. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Scalloped Potatoes recipe.

Ingredients for Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Eggplants: Choose firm eggplants with smooth skin; they should feel heavy for their size.
• Breadcrumbs: Use panko for extra crunch or traditional breadcrumbs for a softer texture.
• Marinara Sauce: Opt for a high-quality store-bought sauce or make your own using fresh tomatoes.
• Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Look for buffalo mozzarella if you want an indulgent experience; it melts beautifully.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for the best flavor; it adds a salty bite to balance the dish.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling over the eggplants before baking.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: They add a delightful herbal note and freshness to each bite.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Eggplants

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice your eggplants into thin rounds about half an inch thick. Sprinkle them generously with salt and let them sit in a colander for about 30 minutes. This allows excess moisture to drain out and helps reduce bitterness.

Step 2: Bread the Eggplants

Rinse off the salt from your eggplant slices and pat them dry with paper towels. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with water, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese. Dip each slice first into flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat it well in breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden

Arrange the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over them or spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Layer Up

In a large baking dish, spread about half of your marinara sauce on the bottom layer. Begin layering by adding half of your baked eggplants followed by half of your mozzarella cheese slices. Repeat this process until you’ve used all ingredients, finishing off with remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella on top.

Step 5: Final Baking Touch

Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake at the same temperature (375°F or 190°C) for another 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Once done baking, let your Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan rest for about ten minutes before slicing into it this helps keep everything intact! Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for that Instagram-worthy touch.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with more marinara if desired for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every cheesy bite as this hearty meal warms not just your stomach but also your soul!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by salting the eggplant to draw out moisture, then rinse and pat dry. While the eggplant drains, prepare your marinara sauce and get your cheese ready. Sear the eggplant slices before layering them with sauce and cheese for optimal flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out mozzarella for provolone or add fresh basil between the layers for an extra kick. You can even throw in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to sneak in more veggies. Make it uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until bubbly and warm throughout. Avoid microwaving unless you want a soggy surprise!

I once made Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan for a gathering, and my friends devoured it within minutes! Their compliments warmed my heart, but what truly melted my heart was seeing them go back for seconds there’s no better feeling!

FAQs:

What is Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan?

Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious Italian dish that features layers of breaded and fried eggplant slices, marinara sauce, and melted cheese. This recipe combines the rich flavors of the eggplant with the savory taste of tomato sauce and the creaminess of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. a creamy breakfast option It’s a popular vegetarian option that can be served as a main dish or side, offering a satisfying experience for anyone who loves Italian cuisine.

How do I prepare the eggplant for Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan?

To prepare the eggplant for Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan, start by slicing it into ¼-inch thick rounds. Then, sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse the slices under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This process helps reduce bitterness and ensures that your final dish has the perfect texture.

Can I make Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time. You can assemble the layers, including the breaded eggplant, marinara sauce, and cheese, then cover and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it in the oven until it’s hot and bubbly. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining guests without last-minute stress.

What are some side dishes to serve with Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan?

Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad tossed in vinaigrette or garlic bread for a classic Italian feel. Roasted vegetables also complement this dish well, adding color and nutrition to your meal. For something lighter, steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach would be excellent choices that balance the richness of the eggplant parmesan.

Conclusion for Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan:

Classic Bread Eggplant Parmesan is an inviting dish that highlights the flavors of eggplant in a delightful way. With its crispy breading, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey cheeses, it promises satisfaction in every bite. Preparing this dish can be done ahead of time for convenience while still delivering delicious results. the best eggplant parmesan recipe Whether served alone or with sides like salad or garlic bread, this recipe is sure to impress anyone who enjoys hearty Italian cuisine. Enjoy your cooking adventure! For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Garlic Shrimp recipe.