How To Make Baked Eggplant Parmesan
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Recipe Overview
Overview
This Eggplant Parmesan recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish. By skipping the breading and frying, it maintains all the rich flavors while being a bit lighter. The key to this dish is the perfectly roasted eggplant, which becomes tender and flavorful in the oven. The olive oil mixture brushed on the eggplant not only helps with roasting but also infuses it with a lovely taste from the spices.
Assembling the layers is where the magic happens. The combination of ground beef, onions, garlic, and bell peppers creates a savory meat sauce that complements the eggplant beautifully. Adding fresh mozzarella and Parmigiano Reggiano elevates the dish, giving it that gooey, cheesy goodness we all love. The final bake melds all the flavors together, resulting in a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
This recipe is not just about taste; it’s also about the experience of cooking. Watching the eggplant roast and the cheese melt in the oven is truly satisfying. Plus, serving it with a fresh salad makes for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this Eggplant Parmesan is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty yet healthier version of a beloved classic.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Mix half a cup of olive oil with half a teaspoon each of sweet paprika, oregano, and onion powder.
Slice the ends off the eggplants and cut them into half-inch thick slices.
Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Tip: If the eggplant slices overlap slightly, it will still work.
Brush the eggplant slices with the olive oil mixture.
Tip: Be generous with your pepper and salt for better flavor.
Sprinkle pepper and salt generously on the eggplant slices.
Place the cookie sheet in the oven and bake for 25 to 35 minutes, flipping halfway.
Brown one pound of ground beef in a pan.
Add half a medium onion to the browned beef.
Tip: Add onions first to release their flavor.
Grate three large garlic cloves into the mixture.
Add half a diced orange bell pepper to the mixture.
Tip: Use orange bell pepper for a smooth flavor and nice color.
Stir in half a teaspoon of onion powder, one teaspoon of oregano, half a teaspoon of sweet paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.
Tip: Freshly grated mozzarella cheese is recommended for better melting.
Add one medium diced tomato to the mixture.
Add half a can of tomato puree to the mixture.
Add a little water if the mixture is too thick.
Lower the temperature and let the meat mixture simmer on low.
Add a layer of meat mixture to the bottom of a 9x13 dish.
Place one slice of eggplant on top of the meat mixture.
Add a layer of freshly grated mozzarella cheese and Parmesan on top.
Repeat layering with eggplant, meat mixture, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
Sprinkle chopped basil leaves on top.
Lower the oven temperature to 375°F and bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
Tip: Adjust baking time based on how melted you want the cheese.
Let the eggplant parmesan sit for about 10 minutes before serving.
Tip: Let the dish sit for about 10 minutes before serving to prevent it from sliding off.
Serve the eggplant parmesan with a salad on the side.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Nutritional Yeast
Ingredient: Gluten
→ Substitution: Gluten-Free Pasta
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Roasting eggplant enhances its flavor and texture, making it a great base for dishes like Eggplant Parmesan.
- •Using freshly grated cheese improves the dish's flavor and texture compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- •Layering ingredients in a baking dish allows for even cooking and flavor distribution.
- •Basil adds a fresh, aromatic touch to Eggplant Parmesan, enhancing its overall taste.
