How to Make Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries – Easy Recipe!

Hey there, fellow foodies! Today, I’m super excited to share with you a game-changing recipe that will satisfy your cravings for something crispy and delicious without any of the guilt. Say hello to Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries! 🥔✨ These aren’t just any ordinary fries—they’re baked to perfection, loaded with flavor, and are a fantastic alternative to regular fries. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner, a fun appetizer, or just a tasty side dish, this recipe checks all the boxes. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—perfect texture!
• Baked, not fried, so it’s a healthier option.
• Ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Customizable with your favorite seasonings.
• Goes great as a side dish or appetizer.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries:

• 1 medium eggplant – cut into French fry shapes
• 1.5 cups gluten-free/panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs – lightly whisked
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil cooking spray
• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade) – optional for serving

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the steps to create these mouthwatering Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut the ends off the eggplant, then slice it into planks, and finally into French fry shapes that are about 4 inches long and 1 inch wide.
3. In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and season with a little salt and pepper.
4. In another shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
5. Dip each eggplant fry into the egg mixture, coating it completely, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture to coat. Place the breaded fries on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving about 1-2 inches of space between each fry.
6. Spray the tops of the eggplant fries with olive oil cooking spray to ensure they get nice and crispy.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through to get both sides crispy.
8. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with sea salt, and serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries turn out perfectly every time:

• Don’t skip the egg wash: It helps the breadcrumbs stick to the eggplant.
• Use the right breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give the best crunch.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Give the fries enough space to crisp up properly.
• Flip halfway: This ensures both sides get evenly crispy.
• Add your favorite seasonings: Garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning can add extra flavor to the breadcrumbs.

How to Serve

These Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries are versatile and can be served in several ways:

• As a side dish for your favorite quick family dinners or 30-minute meals.
• As an appetizer with marinara sauce for dipping.
• Paired with a fresh salad for a light lunch.
• As a fun snack while watching your favorite show.

For a complete meal, try pairing these fries with some easy pasta recipes or a hearty skillet dish, like my How to Make Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet recipe. It’s a match made in heaven!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re planning ahead, you can prepare the breaded eggplant fries up to a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. For leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To crisp them up again, simply bake them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes.

There you have it—a simple, delicious, and healthier take on fries that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas or just want to satisfy your cravings, these Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries are sure to become a favorite. Give them a try and let me know how they turn out!

Happy cooking, and don’t forget to check out some of my other easy and tasty recipes, like my How to Make Grilled Veggie Wraps or my Best Honey and Garlic Roasted Mushrooms Recipe. See you in the kitchen! 🍳