Welcome to a delicious twist on a classic! This Baked Eggplant Parmesan is layered with flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance. Let’s dive into this satisfying recipe!
Tips for Perfect Eggplant
Choosing the right eggplant is key! Look for ones that are firm and glossy for the best results. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little salt on your slices to draw out excess moisture!
Why You’ll Love It
This dish is not only flavorful but also packs a nutritional punch. Trust me, you’ll love how the creamy cheese and tangy marinara meld together!
Ingredients
- Eggplant:
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- Egg Mixture:
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- Breadcrumb Coating:
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- Sauce and Toppings:
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Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Ingredients:
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Step 1- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Step 2- Make the Egg Mixture: In a medium-sized shallow dish, whisk the eggs and almond milk.
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Step 3- Prepare the Breadcrumb Coating: In another medium-sized shallow dish, combine the panko, 1 cup Parmesan cheese, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and several grinds of pepper.
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Step 4- Coat the Eggplant: Dip the eggplant slices into the egg mixture and then into the panko mixture. Place onto the baking sheets, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 18 minutes or until tender and golden brown.
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Step 5- Layer the Ingredients: In an 8x12 or 9x13-inch baking dish, spread ½ cup marinara, layer half the eggplant, and top with 1 cup of marinara and half the mozzarella. Repeat with the remaining eggplant, the remaining marinara, and the remaining mozzarella. Sprinkle with the remaining ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with a few more pinches of sea salt. Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is nicely melted. Turn the oven to broil and broil for 2 to 4 minutes or until the cheese is browned and bubbling.
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Step 6- Add Fresh Basil: Remove from the oven and top with fresh basil.
Nutrition
- Calories: 350, Fat: 18g, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 20g
Cooking techniques
Cooking Techniques
Layering and baking are key techniques in this recipe. Baking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, while broiling gives that perfect crispy, golden finish!
Variations or substitutions
Variations and Substitutions
You can easily swap out the almond milk for regular milk or any plant-based milk of your choice. Add some vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor!
Storage tips
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions and reheating in the oven for best results!
Notes
Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste, and remember to have fun with it!
