Eggplant Parmesan Bake

Name: Eggplant Parmesan Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 2 cups breadcrumbs; 4 cups marinara sauce; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; Olive oil for frying

Highlighted under: Seasonal Comfort Foods

I absolutely love making Eggplant Parmesan Bake! It’s one of those comforting dishes that never fails to impress family and friends. The layers of tender eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese come together beautifully in this bake. Each bite is a delicious explosion of flavors, and it feels great to enjoy a comforting meal that’s also packed with veggies. I can’t wait to share this easy recipe with you—it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a potluck gathering.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:35:36.161Z

Creating this Eggplant Parmesan Bake has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. I remember the first time I made it; I experimented with the layering technique, and it resulted in a wonderfully cohesive dish. I’ve learned that salting the eggplant beforehand is key; it removes excess moisture and enhances the flavor, making each slice a delightful bite of deliciousness.

Every time I prepare this dish, I love to mix up the marinara sauce. Sometimes I’ll add extra herbs or seasoned tomatoes for a boost of flavor. Trust me, personalizing this recipe can elevate it even further, allowing you to make it uniquely yours. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Layers of tender eggplant and rich marinara sauce create an unforgettable flavor profile.
Perfectly melted cheese on top adds a delightful gooey factor to each serving.
A comforting, hearty dish that’s also a great way to enjoy more veggies.

Understanding Eggplant Preparation

Eggplant can be somewhat bitter if not prepared correctly, which is why salting is a critical step. By sprinkling the sliced eggplant with salt, you draw out excess moisture and bitterness, improving the final flavor of your dish. Aim to let it sit for at least 30 minutes; you'll notice water pooling on the surface. After rinsing, ensure you pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This prevents excess moisture from interfering with the frying process, allowing for that beautifully crispy exterior.

When choosing eggplants, look for ones that are firm and shiny, with smooth skin. Smaller varieties tend to be sweeter and less bitter. If you’re making this dish ahead of time, consider roasting the eggplants instead of frying to save time on the day of assembly; just brush the slices lightly with olive oil and roast them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden.

Perfecting the Layering Technique

Layering is key to achieving the perfect Eggplant Parmesan Bake. Start with a generous layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of your baking dish—this not only adds flavor but also helps prevent the eggplant from sticking. Be sure to spread it evenly to cover the entire base. When layering the eggplant and cheeses, overlap the slices slightly to make sure every helping is full of flavor and ingredients.

As you build your layers, consider an extra sprinkle of dried oregano or fresh basil between layers for added herbal notes. When you reach the top layer, finish with a hearty amount of mozzarella and Parmesan to create a delightful crust. This high cheese layer will become bubbly and golden, creating a visually appealing and delicious topping that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Eggplant Parmesan Bake:

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
2 cups breadcrumbs
4 cups marinara sauce
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil for frying

Make sure to prepare all ingredients and have them ready before starting the cooking process for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Eggplant Parmesan Bake:

Prepare the Eggplant

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle sliced eggplant with salt and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Rinse and pat dry.

Breading the Eggplant

Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dip each slice of eggplant in flour, then eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

Fry the Eggplant

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.

Layer and Bake

In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, a layer of fried eggplant, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan. Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top. Bake for 30 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the bake cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with additional marinara sauce if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Eggplant Parmesan Bake as a comforting main dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding fresh basil between the layers, or use homemade marinara sauce for a personal touch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Eggplant Parmesan Bake can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect candidate for a potluck or busy weeknight dinner. Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover it with foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the foil and heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 40 minutes, or until bubbly, adding an extra 10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the bake covered with foil to prevent the cheese from browning too much, warming it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. This dish also freezes well; simply allow it to cool completely before freezing, and bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about an hour.

Serving Suggestions

Eggplant Parmesan Bake is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple side salad for a well-rounded meal. A crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette works wonderfully to balance the richness of the dish. You can also serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of spaghetti for a more filling option.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the layers for extra vegetable goodness. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds nutritional value to the dish. For an Italian twist, finish off your servings with freshly grated basil or a drizzle of balsamic reduction, taking your Eggplant Parmesan Bake to another level.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare the layers, assemble, and refrigerate if needed. Bake when you're ready to serve.

→ What sides pair well with Eggplant Parmesan Bake?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread complements this dish beautifully.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.