Description
A delightful Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan with layers of savory eggplant, marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese—a cozy fall favorite that’s lighter and healthier.
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs (ensure they are gluten-free if preferred)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Olive oil spray
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the eggplant: Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes. Rinse off the salt and pat the slices dry with a paper towel.
- Set up the breading station: In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, add the seasoned bread crumbs.
- Bread the eggplant: Dip each slice of eggplant first into the flour, then the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the bread crumbs.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the eggplant.
- Air fry the eggplant: Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil and arrange the breaded eggplant slices in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil and air fry for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Assemble the dish: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Layer half of the air-fried eggplant slices, followed by half of the remaining marinara, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers.
- Final bake: Bake the assembled eggplant parmesan in the air fryer for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the air fryer and let it cool. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before slicing.
Notes
Allowing the salt to draw out moisture from the eggplant enhances flavor and texture. Adjust cooking time based on thickness of slices.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian