How to Make Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan

There’s something special about a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, and my Crispy Baked Eggplant Parmesan checks both boxes. I just can’t get enough of this recipe—it’s perfect for a quick family dinner or a cozy night in. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor. Let me walk you through how to create this delicious, crispy eggplant masterpiece that’s sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy, golden eggplant slices without deep-frying
• Flavorful and satisfying, perfect for a weeknight dinner
• Easily customizable to suit your taste preferences
• A healthier alternative to traditional fried eggplant Parmesan
• Ready in about 45 minutes—perfect for quick family dinners

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:

• 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 25 oz marinara sauce
• 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil, julienned (optional)

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

How to Make the Recipe

Prepare the Eggplant

Lay the eggplant slices in a single layer on paper towels and generously salt each side. Let the eggplant sit for 15 minutes, then flip, salt the other side, and let sit for another 15 minutes. Rinse the slices with water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps to remove excess moisture and bitterness, although some choose to skip it.

Preheat and Prepare Coatings

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In one shallow dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, basil, and garlic powder. In another dish, lightly beat the eggs with the water.

Coat the Eggplant

Dip each eggplant slice into the egg mixture, then coat both sides in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure an even coating.

Bake the Eggplant

Line a baking sheet with foil and drizzle it with olive oil. Spread the oil around to cover the entire sheet. Place the breaded eggplant slices in a single layer on the prepared sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Flip the slices and bake for another 10 minutes until golden and crispy.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Spoon marinara sauce over each slice of baked eggplant, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve your crispy baked eggplant Parmesan with your favorite side dish or pasta. It pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use panko breadcrumbs for the crispiest coating—they make a big difference!
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this ensures even cooking and prevents the eggplant from steaming instead of browning.
• Let the eggplant sit after salting to draw out moisture for the best results.
• For an extra crispy coating, you can lightly spray the breaded eggplant slices with olive oil before baking.

How to Serve

This dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a main course alongside your favorite pasta, a green salad, or garlic bread. It’s also a great addition to a quick family dinner lineup. If you’re looking for more easy pasta recipes, check out my How to Make Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Quinoa Skillet in 30 Minutes or How to Make the Best Garlic Mushroom Pasta in 30 Minutes for more inspiration. For a creamy, indulgent option, try pairing it with my creamy garlic pasta recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

You can prepare the breaded eggplant slices ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven until crispy again.

There you have it—my secret to making the crispiest, most flavorful baked eggplant Parmesan. It’s a game-changer for any weeknight dinner ideas or special occasion. Enjoy!