Breaded Eggplant is a delicious and crispy dish that makes the most of the tender texture of eggplant while adding a crunchy, savory exterior. The eggplant slices are typically dipped in a mixture of breadcrumbs (often seasoned with garlic, Parmesan, and herbs) and then fried or baked to golden perfection. The result is a crispy, flavorful outer crust with a tender, creamy interior, making it a great side dish, appetizer, or main course when served with marinara sauce or a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze.
The first time I made Breaded Eggplant, I was looking for something crispy and satisfying, and this dish hit all the right notes! The contrast between the crunchy coating and the soft eggplant was perfect, and the seasoning in the breadcrumbs gave it such great flavor. What I love most about this dish is how versatile it is—you can easily tweak the breadcrumbs to match your taste, adding spices like paprika or Italian seasoning, and it works just as well fried or baked. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or as part of a larger meal, Breaded Eggplant is sure to be a hit!
Perfect for:
- Vegetarians
- Appetizers
- Side dishes
- Healthy meals
- Family gatherings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Breaded Eggplant will become your go-to dish:
- Crispy and Crunchy: The breadcrumb coating gives the eggplant the perfect crispy texture, making every bite delightful.
- Savory Flavors: The seasoned breadcrumbs provide a savory, aromatic flavor that complements the mild eggplant perfectly.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a breeze to prepare.
- Healthy Option: While deliciously crispy, this eggplant is baked, offering a healthier alternative to frying.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own, as a topping for salads, or as a side to pasta and other main dishes.
- Meat-Free Delight: A great plant-based choice that can be enjoyed by vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the breaded eggplant in advance, then bake or reheat when ready to serve.
- Customizable Breadings: Switch up the breadcrumbs with panko, gluten-free options, or add Parmesan for a unique twist.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and store for easy meals throughout the week.
- Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is perfect for family dinners, parties, or gatherings, and will have everyone asking for more.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 12g
Ingredients
For the Breaded Eggplant:
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Eggplant: Mild and tender, eggplant soaks up the breading and flavors, making each bite delicious.
- Breadcrumbs: Choose your favorite variety for the perfect crispy coating.
- Garlic Powder and Oregano: These seasonings add depth and fragrance to the dish.
- Olive Oil: Helps to crisp the breading and adds a subtle richness to the eggplant.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Eggplant:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Slice the Eggplant: Slice the eggplants into ½-inch thick rounds and place them on a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Salt the Eggplant: Sprinkle salt over the eggplant slices and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
Bread the Eggplant:
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan (if using), garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Egg Wash: In another bowl, whisk the eggs.
- Coat the Eggplant: Dip each eggplant slice into the egg wash, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded eggplant slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.
Bake the Eggplant:
- Bake: Bake the eggplant in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of a main meal.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Breaded Eggplant:
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside pasta, risotto, or grilled vegetables for a satisfying meal.
- With Marinara Sauce: Pair with warm marinara for a delicious dipping option.
- In a Sandwich: Place the breaded eggplant slices on a bun with your favorite toppings for a vegetarian sandwich.
- Topped with Mozzarella: Add a slice of mozzarella on top of each eggplant slice and bake for a few extra minutes until melted.
- On a Salad: Layer over a fresh salad for a crunchy, savory element.
- With Tzatziki Sauce: Pair with cool, creamy tzatziki for a Mediterranean twist.
- As an Appetizer: Serve with dipping sauces as a tasty appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- With Pasta: Enjoy the breaded eggplant on the side of a pasta dish for a hearty meal.
- In a Wrap: Place the breaded eggplant in a tortilla with fresh veggies and a spread for a wrap.
- As a Pizza Topping: Use the breaded eggplant slices as a unique topping for homemade pizza.
Additional Tips
- Pat Dry the Eggplant: Make sure to pat the eggplant slices dry after salting to avoid excess moisture during baking.
- Crispier Texture: For an even crispier result, use panko breadcrumbs or double coat the eggplant slices.
- Healthier Option: Lightly spray the breaded eggplant with olive oil instead of drizzling it to reduce fat.
- Vary the Breading: Try adding herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture for a new flavor profile.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the eggplant is golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free Breaded Eggplant: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option.
- Spicy Breaded Eggplant: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a bit of heat.
- Vegan Version: Use a flaxseed egg wash (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of eggs.
- Cheesy Breaded Eggplant: Mix shredded mozzarella into the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy crust.
- Italian Style: Add Italian seasoning to the breadcrumbs and top with marinara and mozzarella for a classic Italian dish.
- Baked Eggplant Parmesan: Layer the breaded eggplant slices with marinara sauce and cheese for a lighter version of Eggplant Parmesan.
Special Equipment
- Baking Sheet: For baking the eggplant slices evenly.
- Shallow Bowls: For the egg wash and breadcrumb mixture.
- Tongs or Fork: To handle the eggplant slices easily while breading.
- Parchment Paper or Cooking Spray: To prevent sticking during baking.
FAQ Section
- Can I fry the eggplant instead of baking it?
Yes, you can fry the breaded eggplant in hot oil for a crispier result, but baking is a healthier option. - How long does breaded eggplant last in the fridge?
The breaded eggplant can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. - Can I freeze the breaded eggplant?
Yes, freeze the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag once frozen for up to 2 months. - Can I use eggplant that’s not salted?
Yes, but salting helps remove excess moisture from the eggplant, preventing it from becoming soggy. - How can I make the eggplant less bitter?
Salting the eggplant helps reduce bitterness. You can also choose younger, smaller eggplants for a milder flavor. - Can I skip the Parmesan?
Yes, if you prefer a dairy-free or lighter version, you can omit the Parmesan. - What should I serve with breaded eggplant?
Pair it with pasta, a salad, or any of your favorite sauces for a complete meal. - How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming soggy?
Make sure the eggplant is patted dry after salting, and bake at a high temperature to achieve a crispy crust. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the breaded eggplant in advance, then bake or reheat when ready to serve. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in batches if necessary.
Conclusion
Breaded Eggplant is a simple yet delicious dish where eggplant slices are coated in a crispy, golden breadcrumb mixture and then baked or fried until perfectly crunchy. The breading is usually made from breadcrumbs, flour, and seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and Parmesan cheese, giving the eggplant a savory and flavorful crust. The eggplant itself becomes tender and melts in your mouth once cooked, while the crispy coating provides the perfect contrast in texture.
You can serve breaded eggplant as a side dish, on top of pasta, or even as a sandwich in a bun with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for a tasty vegetarian “parmigiana.” It’s also great as a snack with a side of dipping sauce like marinara or tzatziki.
I can’t wait to see how your Breaded Eggplant turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!