breaded eggplant parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that is sure to please everyone. Its layers of breaded eggplant and cheese, topped with tomato sauce and baked until golden and bubbly, make it a classic favorite. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or as a side dish, Eggplant Parmesan is sure to be a hit.

What is Eggplant Parmesan?

Eggplant Parmesan, or melanzane alla parmigiana in Italian, is a popular Italian dish made with breaded eggplant slices, tomato sauce, and cheese. It’s usually served as a main course, but it can also be served as a side dish.

How to Make Breaded Eggplant Parmesan

Making Breaded Eggplant Parmesan is easy, but it does take some time. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4 inch thick rounds
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup dry bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
2. Place the flour in a shallow bowl. Place the beaten eggs in a separate bowl. Place the bread crumbs in a third shallow bowl. Dip the eggplant slices in the flour, then the eggs, and then the bread crumbs. Place the breaded eggplant slices in the prepared baking dish.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the eggplant slices. Top with the tomato sauce and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle with parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions for Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan can be served as a main course with a side of pasta or salad. It can also be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. For a vegetarian option, serve it with sautéed vegetables on the side.

Tips for Making the Perfect Eggplant Parmesan

• Be sure to slice the eggplant into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick. This will ensure that the eggplant cooks through and doesn’t become mushy.
• Be sure to use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the tomato sauce. Canned tomatoes won’t give the same flavor.
• For extra flavor, try adding some minced garlic or oregano to the tomato sauce.
• If you’re making this dish ahead of time, wait to add the cheese until just before baking. This will ensure that the cheese melts properly and doesn’t burn.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Eggplant Parmesan?

Eggplant Parmesan can be served as a main course with a side of pasta or salad. It can also be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. For a vegetarian option, serve it with sautéed vegetables on the side.

How do I ensure that the eggplant cooks through?

Be sure to slice the eggplant into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick. This will ensure that the eggplant cooks through and doesn’t become mushy.

Can I make Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time. Just be sure to wait to add the cheese until just before baking. This will ensure that the cheese melts properly and doesn’t burn.

What can I add to the tomato sauce for extra flavor?

For extra flavor, try adding some minced garlic or oregano to the tomato sauce.

What is the best cheese to use for Eggplant Parmesan?

The best cheese to use for Eggplant Parmesan is Parmesan cheese. Grated Parmesan cheese will give the dish the best flavor.