Cheesy Eggplant Parmesan(Tender Eggplant Covered In Melted Cheese)
Creamy, cheesy eggplant slices layered with rich tomato sauce and melted cheese create a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour and salt; place in shallow dish.
- Dip eggplant slices in beaten eggs, then in flour mixture.
- Brown slices until golden in hot shortening; drain well on brown paper.
- Place 1 layer of eggplant in an 8x8-inch glass baking dish.
- Top with half of Parmesan cheese, Italian sauce, and sliced Mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers with remaining ingredients.
- Bake at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes or until cheese is completely melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, try baking the eggplant slices instead of frying them. You can also substitute the Crisco shortening with olive oil for a healthier fat option. If you're short on Parmesan, a mix of Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can work well too. Consider adding a sprinkle of Italian herbs to enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Eggplant Parmesan pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside Italian Stuffed Pasta Shells or Zucchini L' Italienne. A glass of red wine complements the flavors nicely, making it perfect for a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melty again. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but the oven will keep the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Eggplant Parmesan(Tender Eggplant Covered In Melted Cheese) contains roughly 593 calories, with 18g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1511mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone or fontina for different flavors. Just keep in mind that melting properties may vary, so choose cheeses that melt well.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the eggs with a mixture of flaxseed meal and water or use chickpea flour mixed with water as a binder. Replace the cheeses with vegan alternatives available in stores, and use a plant-based oil instead of Crisco for frying.
What can I serve with Eggplant Parmesan?
This dish goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with Italian recipes like a mixed green salad, garlic bread, or even a side of pasta. Roasted vegetables or a simple marinara sauce can also elevate the meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).