ADVERTISEMENT
—
### **Instructions:**
#### **1. Prepare the Eggplant:**
Begin by preheating your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Next, peel and slice the eggplant into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Arrange the slices in a single layer on the baking sheet and lightly brush both sides of each slice with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then bake for **20 minutes**, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. The eggplant should become tender and slightly golden.
#### **2. Layer the Casserole:**
Once the eggplant slices are baked and tender, reduce the oven temperature to **375°F (190°C)**. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of the baked eggplant slices on top of the sauce, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer.
Next, sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese over the eggplant, followed by a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese. Repeat this process until all the eggplant slices are used up, ending with a layer of sauce and a final topping of cheese.
#### **3. Bake to Perfection:**
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about **25 minutes**. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional **10 minutes** to allow the cheese to become bubbly and golden brown.
#### **4. Garnish and Serve:**
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and parsley for added freshness and a pop of color. Serve hot with a side of pasta, a salad, or some crusty bread for the ultimate Italian-inspired meal.
—
### **Why This Baked Eggplant Parmesan Hits the Spot:**
– **Healthier Alternative:** By baking the eggplant instead of frying it, this recipe cuts down on calories and oil, while still delivering a satisfying crunch and tender texture. It’s a healthier option for anyone trying to cut back on fried foods.
– **Rich, Savory Tomato Sauce:** The rich marinara sauce brings all the flavors of Italy to your plate. It’s the perfect complement to the eggplant, balancing out the mild flavor of the vegetable with its tangy, savory notes.
– **Cheesy Goodness:** The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses gives this dish its signature creamy, melty texture, making it as indulgent as the traditional version without the excess grease.
– **Packed with Flavor:** With the addition of fresh basil and optional garlic powder, this dish is bursting with aromatic, herby goodness, taking it to the next level of flavor.
—
### **Tips for Making the Best Baked Eggplant Parmesan:**
1. **Salt the Eggplant:** To reduce any bitterness and moisture, you can salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 20-30 minutes before cooking. This draws out excess water and enhances the flavor. Just be sure to rinse and pat them dry before using.
2. **Use Fresh or Homemade Sauce:** For an even more flavorful dish, consider using homemade marinara sauce or a high-quality store-bought option with no added sugars or preservatives. A fresh sauce really brings the dish to life.
3. **Add a Crunchy Topping:** If you want to add some extra texture, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top of the cheese before baking. This will give you a delightful crispy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy interior.
4. **Make it Vegetarian or Vegan:** This dish is already vegetarian, but to make it vegan, you can use dairy-free cheese substitutes and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan version.
5. **Pair with a Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of eggplant Parmesan, balancing out the heaviness of the cheese and sauce.
—
### **Conclusion:**
Baked Eggplant Parmesan with Tomato Sauce is the perfect way to enjoy all the comforting flavors of this classic dish with a healthier twist. The combination of tender eggplant, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheese creates a dish that is as indulgent as it is satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. With its rich flavors and lighter preparation, it’s a win-win for both your taste buds and your health!
ADVERTISEMENT
