Fried eggplant parmesan –Are you ready to indulge in a comforting classic? Classic Eggplant Parmesan is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of eggplant, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!
Classic Eggplant Parmesan
Feast your eyes on this delectable dish! It’s not just delicious, but also a feast for the eyes. Here’s a tantalizing look at what you’ll be creating:
Ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- Salt, for sweating the eggplant
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil, for brushing
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the eggplant by sprinkling salt on both sides of each slice. Lay the slices in a colander and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This step helps to draw out the moisture and bitterness from the eggplant.
- Rinse off the salt and pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the eggplant, followed by half of the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Add more sauce, then repeat the layers one more time.
- Finish by spreading the remaining marinara sauce on top and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Add the dried herbs and black pepper on top.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Once done, let the dish rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Classic Eggplant Parmesan! It’s an experience full of flavor, and each bite will surely bring a smile to your face. Perfectly layered, golden, and cheesy, it’s a dish that never goes out of style!