Easy Eggplant Parmigiana
Delicious Eggplant Parmigiana features tender baked eggplant slices topped with flavorful tomato sauce, Parmesan, and melted cheese, perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal or family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place eggplant slices on a greased broiler pan.
- Brush the slices with some of the cooking oil.
- Broil 4 to 5 inches from heat for 4 to 5 minutes. Turn slices and brush with remaining oil.
- Broil for 4 minutes more.
- Combine spaghetti sauce, grated onion, minced garlic, and salt.
- Spread each eggplant slice with some of the spaghetti sauce.
- Sprinkle each with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Top each with 3 thin strips of Mozzarella cheese.
- Broil for 1 to 2 minutes more or until lightly browned and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, try using olive oil instead of cooking oil. If you want to add more flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the spaghetti sauce. For a different texture, you can also layer in some zucchini or mushrooms between the eggplant slices. If you're short on time, pre-made sauce can work well, but homemade adds a personal touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the eggplant parmigiana hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of spaghetti or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a glass of red wine. Browse more vegetarian recipes to find delicious sides that complement this dish perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the eggplant parmigiana in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but the oven helps keep the texture crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Eggplant Parmigiana contains roughly 205 calories, with 10g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value) and calcium (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1538mg per serving (67% 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?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella cheese with provolone or even a vegan cheese alternative if you're looking for a dairy-free option. Each cheese will bring a different flavor and texture, so choose one that best suits your taste preferences.
How do I know when the eggplant is cooked properly?
The eggplant should be tender and lightly browned when broiled. If it feels soft to the touch and has a nice golden color, it's likely cooked well. Avoid overcooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the eggplant and sauce in advance, layer them, and store the assembled dish in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just broil it right before serving for that fresh, melted cheese topping.
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).