Lorelei'S Eggplant Parmesan
Layered eggplant slices with rich tomato sauce and melted cheeses create a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for comforting family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce with garlic and oregano for 30 minutes, then set aside.
- Slice eggplant into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Dip each eggplant slice into slightly beaten eggs, then coat with bread crumbs.
- Fry the breaded eggplant slices in vegetable oil until slightly brown on each side.
- Cover a baking pan with a layer of the tomato sauce.
- Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices over the sauce.
- Top the eggplant layer with more sauce.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and then Mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Bake in a 350°F oven until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier eggplant, sprinkle salt on the slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture, then rinse and pat dry. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can bake the breaded eggplant instead of frying. You can also substitute zucchini for a different take on this classic dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Italian Bread for a delightful meal. Consider a side salad or some garlic bread to complete the dinner experience. This dish also makes a great vegetarian option for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help keep the crust crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lorelei'S Eggplant Parmesan contains roughly 733 calories, with 23g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (85% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1191mg per serving (52% 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 is traditional, you can experiment with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a unique flavor. Just ensure the cheese melts well for the best texture.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour. Additionally, ensure that the tomato sauce and any other packaged ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the layers a day in advance and assemble the dish without baking. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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).