Irresistible Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella Recipe

Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella is like a cozy hug from your Italian grandmother, minus the guilt of overeating. Picture layers of crispy, golden-brown eggplant, bubbling fresh mozzarella, and rich marinara sauce that wafts through the kitchen like it’s auditioning for a perfume commercial. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and leaves you begging for seconds—maybe even thirds.

As I recall my first attempt at making Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella, I can’t help but chuckle at the chaos that ensued. Eggplant flew across the kitchen like confetti, and my dog thought it was his birthday. But after some trial and error (and maybe a few accidental burns), I discovered the secret to this classic dish. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a quiet dinner when you want to impress without the fuss. Trust me; flavors so good will have you dreaming about your next slice before you even finish your current one.

Ingredients for Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella

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

• Eggplants: Choose firm eggplants without blemishes. These are the star of the show and should be sliced thinly.
• Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for high-quality fresh mozzarella for that gooey texture that stretches perfectly.
• Marinara Sauce: A good store-bought sauce works wonders or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate this fresh for maximum flavor—trust me, it makes all the difference.
• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and aroma; don’t skimp on it!
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling over the eggplant slices before roasting.

For breading:

• Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs; they add crunch and texture to each layer.
• Flour: All-purpose flour helps to coat the eggplant slices before dipping them in egg.
• Eggs: You’ll need these beaten eggs to help the breadcrumbs stick perfectly to those delicious slices.

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

How to Make Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, slice your eggplants into thin rounds—about half an inch thick works best—then sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture and bitterness.

Step 2: Breading Station Setup

Set up a breading station by placing flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with some grated Parmesan in a third. Dip each eggplant slice into flour first, then into eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Bake Those Slices

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange your breaded eggplant slices in a single layer. Drizzle them lightly with olive oil and bake for about 20 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Layering Time

Once baked, it’s time to assemble! In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom. Then place a layer of baked eggplant over it followed by fresh mozzarella slices, more marinara sauce, basil leaves, and sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top. Repeat until all ingredients are used up!

Step 5: Final Bake

Cover your baking dish loosely with foil (to avoid sticking) and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until bubbly. Remove the foil during the last five minutes of baking time so everything gets beautifully browned.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Let your Eggplant Parmesan rest for about ten minutes before slicing—it will help everything hold together better! Transfer generous portions onto plates and maybe drizzle with some extra olive oil or fresh basil if you’re feeling fancy.

Enjoy this glorious creation—it’s not just dinner; it’s an event worthy of applause!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping your eggplants; slice them and let them sweat out moisture. While they do their thing, whip up the marinara sauce and preheat your oven. Once the sauce is simmering, fry the eggplant slices until golden brown. Then layer everything in a baking dish and pop it into the oven.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella! Swap in zucchini for a different vegetable twist or try using goat cheese for a tangy flavor explosion. Add fresh basil or crushed red pepper for an extra kick that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re in a hurry!

Sometimes I whip up this Eggplant Parmesan and my friends declare it better than any restaurant they’ve been to! It’s those moments of joy that make all the chopping and frying worth it.

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella?

To create a delicious Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella, gather fresh eggplants, high-quality mozzarella cheese, marinara sauce, and grated Parmesan cheese. You’ll also need fresh basil leaves, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Using fresh ingredients enhances the dish’s flavor. Opt for ripe tomatoes for the marinara sauce or store-bought versions that contain no preservatives. This classic dish relies heavily on these basic ingredients to create a comforting and satisfying meal.

How long does it take to prepare Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella?

Preparing Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella typically takes about 30 minutes of preparation time and an additional 40 minutes for baking. The total cooking time can vary based on your familiarity with the recipe and your kitchen setup. Allow extra time if you choose to make homemade marinara sauce. However, once you master the steps, this dish can easily become a go-to option for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

Can I make Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella ahead of time?

Yes, making Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella ahead of time is a great idea! You can prepare the dish up to the baking stage and store it in the refrigerator for 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven and bake until bubbly and golden brown. This method also makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests.

What variations can I try with my Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella?

You have plenty of room for creativity when preparing Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella! Consider adding layers of sautéed spinach or mushrooms to boost nutrition and flavor. For a spicy kick, incorporate red pepper flakes into your marinara sauce. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute traditional breadcrumbs with ground almonds or gluten-free alternatives. Each variation can add a unique twist while retaining the essence of this classic dish.

Conclusion for Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella:

In summary, Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and textures from fresh ingredients like eggplants and mozzarella cheese. Preparation involves layering ingredients thoughtfully to create a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you opt to make it ahead of time or experiment with variations, this recipe offers flexibility and comfort in every bite. Enjoy crafting this classic Italian favorite in your kitchen today!

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Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella

• Author: Christina
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

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Description

Savor the delicious layers of crispy eggplant, gooey fresh mozzarella, and rich marinara in this comforting Italian classic. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium eggplants (sliced into 1/2-inch rounds)
• Salt (for sweating eggplants)
• 3 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for coating)
• 2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice eggplants and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
3. Rinse and pat dry before proceeding.
4. Set up a breading station: place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan in a third.
5. Dip each eggplant slice first in flour, then in eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange breaded eggplant slices in a single layer.
7. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
8. In a large baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom.
9. Layer baked eggplant slices over the sauce, followed by mozzarella slices, more marinara, basil leaves, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
10. Repeat layering until all ingredients are used.
11. Cover loosely with foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until bubbly.
12. Remove foil during the last five minutes to brown the top.
13. Allow to rest for ten minutes before slicing.
14. Serve warm, garnished with extra basil if desired.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: Use firm eggplants for better texture; softer ones can become mushy. For added flavor, incorporate sautéed spinach or mushrooms between layers. To make it gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with ground almonds or gluten-free options.