Skillet Eggplant Parm

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Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make vegetarian dish?

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Skillet Eggplant Parm
Prep
10 min
Total
55 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

  2. Heat 1/2 cup of oil in a large skillet (about 12 inches) over medium-high heat.

  3. Add the eggplant in three separate batches, making sure they are in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper.

  4. Cook the eggplant until it is golden brown on both sides, flipping halfway through. This should take about 4 minutes per side. Adjust the heat between medium and medium-high as needed. Transfer the cooked eggplant to a plate and repeat with the remaining batches, using 1/2 cup of oil per batch if necessary.

  5. Remove the skillet from the heat and add 1 cup of marinara sauce, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom.

  6. Arrange half of the cooked eggplant in a single layer in the skillet.

  7. Top the eggplant with half of the mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.

  8. Repeat the previous step with the remaining eggplant, adding dollops of marinara sauce and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Also, add the basil leaves.

  9. In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil. Season with salt and pepper.

  10. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the skillet.

  11. Bake in the preheated oven until the dish

About this recipe

Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make vegetarian dish? Look no further than skillet eggplant parm! This Italian classic is not only packed with flavor, but it's also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of making skillet eggplant parm, from choosing the perfect eggplant to the final step of serving it up hot and fresh.

Choosing the Perfect Eggplant

When it comes to making skillet eggplant parm, choosing the right eggplant is key. Look for an eggplant that is firm to the touch, with a shiny and smooth skin. Avoid any eggplants that have bruises or blemishes, as these may indicate that the eggplant is overripe or damaged.

Slicing and Prepping the Eggplant

Once you have your eggplant, it's time to slice and prep it for cooking. Start by removing the stem and then slice the eggplant into 1/2-inch-thick rounds. To remove any bitterness, sprinkle salt on both sides of the slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes. Afterward, rinse the eggplant slices and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Now that your eggplant slices are prepped and ready, it's time to coat them in breadcrumbs and fry them up. Dip each slice into a beaten egg, ensuring that both sides are coated, and then press the slices into a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the breaded eggplant slices until they are golden brown on both sides. Remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Adding the Sauce and Cheese

No skillet eggplant parm would be complete without a rich tomato sauce and melty cheese. Spread a layer of your favorite tomato sauce on the bottom of the skillet, then place the fried eggplant slices on top. Spoon more tomato sauce over the eggplant and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers until you've used all of your eggplant slices.

Baking and Serving

Once your skillet is filled with layers of eggplant, sauce, and cheese, it's time to bake it in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the skillet eggplant parm for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and the sauce is bubbling. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I make skillet eggplant parm ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare skillet eggplant parm ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. When you're ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake until heated through.

. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella cheese is the traditional choice for skillet eggplant parm, you can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Try using a combination of mozzarella and provolone for a delicious twist.

. Can I make skillet eggplant parm gluten-free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of skillet eggplant parm by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring that the tomato sauce and cheese are also gluten-free. There are plenty of gluten-free options available in most grocery stores.

. Can I freeze leftover skillet eggplant parm?

Yes, you can freeze leftover skillet eggplant parm for future meals. Simply let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven until heated through.

. Can I add other vegetables to skillet eggplant parm?

Of course! Skillet eggplant parm is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers to the layers for added flavor and texture.

. Can I make skillet eggplant parm vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegan version of skillet eggplant parm by using vegan cheese and substituting the egg with a plant-based alternative, such as a flaxseed or chia seed mixture.

. What can I serve with skillet eggplant parm?

Skillet eggplant parm pairs well with a side of pasta, a fresh green salad, or even some crusty bread. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or as a side dish.

. Can I use frozen eggplant slices?

While fresh eggplant is recommended for skillet eggplant parm, you can use frozen eggplant slices if that's what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen slices before using them in the recipe.

In conclusion, skillet eggplant parm is a delicious and satisfying vegetarian dish that is sure to impress. With its layers of crispy breaded eggplant, tangy tomato sauce, and melty cheese, it's a classic Italian favorite that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, skillet eggplant parm is a versatile and flavorful option that will leave you wanting more.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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