Eggplant Parmesan Deluxe
Delicious Eggplant Parmesan Deluxe features tender eggplant slices layered with rich tomato sauce, savory seasonings, and Parmesan cheese, baked to golden perfection—perfect for veggie lovers and comfort food fans.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and cut the eggplant into 1/2-inch crosswise slices.
- Beat the egg and milk together.
- Dip each eggplant slice into the egg and milk mixture, then into the bread crumbs.
- Saute a few slices in salad oil until golden brown and fork tender.
- In a greased 2-quart casserole, layer half of the eggplant slices, half of the tomato sauce, half of the seasonings, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining ingredients.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, try using whole wheat bread crumbs or omit the frying step by baking the breaded eggplant slices instead. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a layer of ricotta cheese between the eggplant and sauce. To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat. This dish pairs well with a side of Salad Oil-dressed greens.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Eggplant Parmesan Deluxe with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. A simple mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this dish. For a complete Italian meal, consider finishing with Lemon Italian Cookies for dessert or a light fruit salad for a refreshing end.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, but reheating in the oven will keep the texture crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Parmesan Deluxe contains roughly 457 calories, with 9g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (49% of the Daily Value), calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 524mg per serving (23% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Eggplant Parmesan Deluxe a day in advance. Assemble the layers in the casserole dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and saves time on the day of serving.
What can I substitute for the egg?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use a flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg). Alternatively, unsweetened applesauce or commercial egg replacers also work well to bind the breading without altering the flavor significantly, making it a great option for vegetarian recipes.
Can I freeze Eggplant Parmesan?
Yes, you can freeze Eggplant Parmesan before baking it. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep!
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).