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Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious, vegetarian-friendly twist on a classic Italian dish. This recipe features perfectly crispy eggplant slices coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, then layered with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese.
Cooking it in the air fryer speeds up the process and ensures a lighter dish with less oil. Whether you’re making it as a main course for a cozy dinner or serving it alongside pasta or salad, this dish is satisfying, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even non-vegetarians will enjoy. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Healthier Option
Using the air fryer means you get that crispy texture without all the oil, making it a lighter version of the classic dish.
Full of Flavor
The combination of seasoned breadcrumbs, marinara sauce, and melted cheese ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness.
Vegetarian-Friendly
A perfect choice for meatless meals that will satisfy vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Quick and Easy
The air fryer speeds up the cooking process, so you can enjoy this comforting dish in no time.
Versatile Dish
Serve it as a main course, pair it with pasta, or enjoy it as a side dish—this recipe works for any occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser
With its crispy layers and cheesy goodness, this dish is bound to be a hit with everyone at the table.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan
Spaghetti or Linguine
Pair the eggplant parmesan with your favorite pasta tossed in marinara sauce for a classic Italian-inspired meal.
Fresh Green Salad
A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance to the rich and cheesy dish.
Garlic Bread
Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the extra marinara sauce.
Steamed Vegetables
Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make for a healthy and colorful side dish.
Caesar Salad
The creamy dressing and crisp romaine lettuce complement the flavors of the eggplant parmesan beautifully.
Roasted Potatoes
Herb-seasoned roasted potatoes are a hearty and satisfying addition to the meal.
These pairings will make your Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan a complete and memorable meal!
Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan
Crispy eggplant slices layered with marinara sauce and melted cheese, cooked to perfection in the air fryer for a lighter, vegetarian take on a classic dish.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Olive oil spray
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggplant: Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Set Up the Breading Station: In one bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
- Bread the Eggplant: Dip each eggplant slice into the beaten eggs, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Shake off any excess and set aside.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Cook the Eggplant: Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer, spray the tops lightly with olive oil, and cook for 8-10 minutes. Flip the slices and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Layer the Eggplant: In a baking dish or the air fryer basket (if large enough), layer the cooked eggplant slices with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
- Melt the Cheese: Return the layered eggplant to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer, let cool slightly, and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.
- Customizations: For extra flavor, add fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Cooking Tip: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for even crisp eggplant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?Yes, store-bought marinara works perfectly. Choose a high-quality sauce for the best flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the dish gluten-free.
How do I keep the eggplant from getting soggy?
Salting the eggplant beforehand helps draw out moisture, ensuring a crispier texture when cooked.
Wrapping it up
Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan is a flavorful, healthier take on a classic comfort food. With its crispy eggplant slices, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is a guaranteed hit for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Try it today for a delicious meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy!
