2medium eggplantsabout 2 lbs, sliced into ½-inch rounds
1teaspoonsaltoptional for drawing out moisture
1cupall-purpose flour
2large eggsbeaten
1½cupsbreadcrumbs
½cupgrated Parmesan cheese
2tablespoonsolive oilfor drizzling or brushing
2cupsmarinara sauce
1½cupsshredded mozzarella cheese
1teaspoondried oreganooptional for garnish
Instructions
Sprinkle eggplant slices with salt and let sit for 20 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Set up three shallow bowls for breading: flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan in the third.
Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into egg, then coat thoroughly in breadcrumb mixture.
Arrange coated slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Brush or drizzle lightly with olive oil.
Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
In a 9 by 13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Layer baked eggplant slices, spoon over more sauce, and sprinkle with mozzarella.
Repeat layers as needed, finishing with mozzarella on top.
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with dried oregano if desired.
Notes
Eggplant can be substituted with zucchini or portobello mushrooms.
Use panko for extra crunch or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Substitute mozzarella with provolone or a plant-based cheese for dairy-free
If you can, don’t skip salting the eggplant — it prevents sogginess.
Use a wire rack for baking the eggplant slices to keep them crisp.
Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before slicing to set layers.