Get ready to watch your family’s faces light up with joy when you serve this delectable eggplant parmesan! Savor the taste of succulent eggplant slices, each one coated in a scrumptious bread crumb mix. As these delights crisp up to perfection, you can choose between baking or frying them. Then layer them with a bounty of melty cheeses and marinara sauce for a symphony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. This classic dish is a guaranteed hit for all ages!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10-15 minutes

Serves: 2

Ingredients:

1 eggplant

3 eggs

1 C. Italian breadcrumbs, or a combination of panko and breadcrumbs 

3/4 C. Parmesan plus more for garnish

1/4 C. Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1 C. Mozzarella

1/3 C. oil

16 oz. pasta (such as linguini or spaghetti noodles)

2 C. marinara sauce or spaghetti sauce, clink on this link for a homemade marinara sauce. www.cooknwithmrsg.com

1 lb. ground beef (optional) or a mix of pork and beef 

What to do:

In a wide shallow bowl, whisk together eggs. In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, 3/4 cup Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Take the skin off of eggplants (optional) and cut about 1/2 to 1 inch thick.

Place oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Dip eggplant slices in egg mixture, letting excess drip off, then dredge in breadcrumb mixture, coating well. Place in the heated skillet and fry on both sides until golden brown.

If using meat, brown it in a medium-sized pan on medium-high heat, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Add the marinara sauce and heat through.

Cook your noodles according to package instructions, and then warm your marinara sauce; set aside. To serve: Plate pasta, then eggplant slices, then marinara on top. Garnish with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Broil until cheeses are bubbly and golden brown.

Christina’s Notes:

For a healthier version, dip eggplant slices in egg mixture, letting excess drop off, then dredge in breadcrumb mixture, coating well; place on oiled baking sheets. Bake at 350 degrees until golden brown on the bottom, 20 to 25 minutes. Turn slices; continue baking until browned on the other side, 20 to 25 minutes more.