Layered Love: How to Make Classic Melanzane alla Parmigiana
Melanzane alla Parmigiana, or Eggplant Parmesan, is Italian comfort food at its finest. With golden-fried eggplant slices layered between velvety tomato sauce, melted cheese, and a hint of basil, every bite tastes like a warm hug from Nonna. Whether you’re cooking for family or indulging solo, this iconic dish delivers nostalgia and flavor in equal measure.
π₯ Ingredients (Serves 4β6)
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into ΒΌ-inch rounds
- Salt (for purging eggplant)
- Olive oil, for frying
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 Β½ cups tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, for heat
π² Instructions
Purge the Eggplant: Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit in a colander for 30β45 minutes. This draws out excess moisture and bitterness. Rinse and pat them dry thoroughly.
Prep the Breading Station: Set up three bowls β one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
Bread & Fry: Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Fry in hot olive oil until golden on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
Layer It Up: In a baking dish, spread a layer of tomato sauce, followed by fried eggplant slices, mozzarella, Parmigiano, and a few basil leaves. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and cheese on top.
Bake & Serve: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 10β15 minutes, until bubbling and golden. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
π¦ Amazon Must-Haves to Help You Create the Perfect Melanzane alla Parmigiana
- π Vegetable Mandoline Slicer β Get perfectly even eggplant slices every time.
- π³ Non-Stick Frying Pan or Deep Skillet β Ideal for shallow-frying those golden eggplant rounds.
- π§ Italian-Style Breadcrumbs β Perfectly seasoned for classic flavor and crunch.
- π§ Grater for Parmesan Cheese β Get fluffy, freshly grated Parm with ease.
- π San Marzano Tomato Sauce β Rich and sweet, the best for layering.
- πΏ Fresh Basil Plant or Dried Basil β Brings out that garden-fresh taste.
- π½οΈ Ceramic Baking Dish β Oven-to-table elegance for bubbling, baked perfection.
- π₯ Silicone Spatula Set β Great for layering and serving without scratching your dish.
Pro Tip: Want to go lighter? Skip the frying and bake the eggplant slices instead β just drizzle them with olive oil and roast at 425Β°F until golden.