Best Baked Eggplant Parmesan

Here’s the ULTIMATE Baked Eggplant Parmesan – crispy, cheesy, and deeply flavorful without the greasy heaviness of fried versions. This recipe uses a smart technique for perfect texture every time!

Table of Contents

🍆 Best Baked Eggplant Parmesan

(Serves 6 as a main, 8 as a side)

INGREDIENTS

For the Eggplant:

2 large eggplants (about 2½ lbs), sliced ½” thick
1 tbsp kosher salt (for sweating)
2 cups panko breadcrumbs

1 cup grated Parmesan (divided)
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder

½ tsp black pepper
3 large eggs, beaten
½ cup all-purpose flour

For Assembly:

3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or high-quality jarred)
16 oz fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced

½ cup fresh basil, chopped
Olive oil spray

📝 INSTRUCTIONS

1. Sweat the Eggplant (Key Step!)

Arrange eggplant slices on racks, sprinkle both sides with kosher salt. Let sit 45 minutes (draws out bitterness + improves texture).

Rinse thoroughly, then pat completely dry with towels.

2. Create Breading Stations:

Station 1: Flour + ½ tsp each salt & pepper
Station 2: Beaten eggs + 1 tbsp water

Station 3: Panko + ½ cup Parmesan + Italian seasoning + garlic powder

3. Bread & Bake:

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line 2 sheet pans with parchment.
Dredge each slice: Flour → Egg → Panko, pressing crumbs to adhere.

Arrange in single layer, spray lightly with oil. Bake 20-25 mins, flipping halfway, until golden.

4. Layer & Bake:

In a 9×13″ dish, spread ½ cup marinara.
Add layers: Eggplant → Sauce → Mozzarella → Parmesan → Basil. Repeat.

Top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs for crunch.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 mins until bubbly.

5. Rest & Serve:

Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil.

🔥 PRO TIPS

✅ Crispier Version: Double-bake the breaded slices (5 extra mins) before layering.
🍅 Sauce Hack: Simmer jarred sauce with 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tsp red pepper flakes for depth.
🧀 Cheese Note: Fresh mozzarella gives stretch; aged Parmesan adds umami.
🌿 Make Ahead: Prep components separately, assemble day-of.

Serving Suggestions:

With garlic bread and a crisp green salad
Over spaghetti for a hearty meal

As meal prep – tastes even better next day!

This version is lighter but still indulgent, with no sogginess! Want a vegan or gluten-free adaptation? Just ask! 😊