Why Make This Recipe
This incredible eggplant dish is not just delicious; it’s also a great way to enjoy your vegetables. Eggplant is full of nutrients and pairs beautifully with marinara sauce and cheese. This recipe is simple, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it’s a comforting, hearty meal that everyone will love.
How to Make Incredible Eggplant Dish
Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the eggplant into rounds, about 1/2 inch thick, and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Rinse and pat the eggplant dry.
- In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, followed by a layer of eggplant, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Combine breadcrumbs with garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper, then sprinkle over the top layer of cheese.
- Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Incredible Eggplant Dish
Serve this tasty eggplant dish hot from the oven. It goes great with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. You can also sprinkle extra fresh basil on top for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Store Incredible Eggplant Dish
If you have leftovers, store the eggplant dish in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Tips to Make Incredible Eggplant Dish
- Make sure to salt the eggplant and let it sit. This helps remove bitterness and moisture.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for more flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or breadcrumb mixture.
Variation
You can easily change this recipe by using different cheeses like goat cheese or vegan cheese for a plant-based option. You can also swap the marinara sauce for pesto for a different taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen eggplant?
Yes, you can use frozen eggplant, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the layers in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake it before you are ready to serve.
3. Is this dish gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
Incredible Eggplant Dish
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for drizzling Olive oil Olive oil
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the eggplant into rounds, about 1/2 inch thick, and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Rinse and pat the eggplant dry.
Assembly
- In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, followed by a layer of eggplant, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Combine breadcrumbs with garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper, then sprinkle over the top layer of cheese.
- Drizzle with olive oil.
Cooking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.