Cheesy Fried Eggplant
Crispy fried eggplant slices layered with melted mozzarella create a cheesy, savory treat perfect for appetizers or a comforting snack with bold flavors and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the eggplant and cut into 1/4-inch slices.
- Sprinkle both sides with salt and let sit for 30 minutes.
- Rinse the eggplant slices and pat dry.
- Combine bread crumbs and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a shallow dish.
- Place a slice of mozzarella cheese between two slices of eggplant to make a sandwich.
- Trim the cheese to fit the eggplant slices if necessary.
- Dip the eggplant-cheese sandwiches into beaten eggs, then dredge in the seasoned bread crumbs.
- Fry the coated eggplant slices in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular dry breadcrumbs. If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the eggplant sandwiches instead of frying them; just brush them with olive oil and bake until golden at 400°F. You can also swap mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheesy fried eggplant sandwiches hot as an appetizer or a main dish. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of marinara sauce for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of Potato Salad From Grandma Noyes for a delightful combination of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheesy fried eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness, rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Fried Eggplant contains roughly 695 calories, with 12g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2337mg per serving (102% 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 make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Additionally, ensure that the mozzarella cheese you use is gluten-free, which most brands are, but always check the labels to be sure.
What oil is best for frying the eggplant?
For frying, use an oil with a high smoke point like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils will help achieve a crispy exterior without burning. Avoid using olive oil for frying as it has a lower smoke point.
Can I prepare the eggplant in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the eggplant slices and bread them a few hours in advance. Just keep them in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry them. This makes it convenient for entertaining or busy weeknights.
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).