Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious and healthier twist on the classic Italian dish. Thick slices of eggplant are coated in breadcrumbs, seasoned with herbs and spices, and air-fried to crispy perfection. Topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, this flavorful dish is a satisfying vegetarian option that brings together the rich flavors of eggplant and Parmesan cheese with the convenience and health benefits of air frying.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Cooking spray
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized Eggplant
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- ½ cup of All-purpose flour
- 2 Eggs and milk
- Seasonings
- 1 cup of Marinated sauce
- 1 cup of Shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup of Grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- You must cut the eggplant into 1/2-inch-thick rounds. This allows it to cook evenly. It also ensures that each slice has a crispy exterior and a soft, tender interior. Once you have cut it in the right amount, season the eggplant with salt and pepper.
- Mixing the ingredients is the next thing to do once you have successfully cut and seasoned the eggplant. You must get a shallow bowl and mix 2 large eggs with 2 tablespoons of milk. Ensure you whisk them together. In another bowl, the flour with salt and pepper. Ensure they are properly mixed in the bowl. In the 3rd bowl, add the breadcrumbs, which will help to give your eggplant a crispy texture.
- Take the eggplant and coat the slices in flour. Remove any excess flour that might remain on the slices. Once you have done this, dip the slices into the egg mixture. You must ensure that both sides are properly coated. Lastly, coat the slices with the breadcrumbs in the 3rd bowl. Allow the breadcrumbs to stick to the plant. These steps ensure the mixture sticks to the eggplant slices, giving you a fresh-looking exterior.
- Spray the Air Fryer Basket with Cooking Spray and Air Fry the Eggplant. This prevents the eggplant slices from sticking to the basket when you cook it. Once you have sprayed it, arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer.Air fry the eggplant for 10 to 12 minutes till the eggplant is golden and crispy. You can use your spatula to flip the slices in the middle of the frying. This will help to ensure that every part of the eggplant is properly cooked.
- Once properly fried, transfer the eggplant slices to a baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over the slices. Ensure you spread it out over the eggplant.Once you have done this, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated parmesan cheese over each slide. This will add more flavor and texture to the dish.
- Once you have marinated the eggplant slices, you can bake the dish in the oven. This helps melt the cheese and makes it bubbly and golden brown. It is the final step that helps to combine all the flavors and textures. Following these steps should take 1 to 2 hours to prepare this recipe. Once the dish is set, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. You can serve the dish hot or garnish it with chopped fresh herbs. You can serve this dish with crusty bread, spaghetti, and vegetables.