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Healthy Baked Eggplant Parmesan

A lighter twist on a traditional favorite, this Healthy Baked Eggplant Parmesan features layers of roasted eggplant, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for enjoying Italian cuisine in a nutritious way.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Eggplant

  • 2 medium medium eggplants
  • 2.5 tablespoons olive oil, divided

For the Cheese and Sauce

  • 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce

For Topping

  • 1/2 cup seasoned Italian breadcrumbs

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.
  • Slice the eggplants into 12 half-inch pieces. Arrange them on a cookie cooling rack and sprinkle generously with salt. Cover with a large sheet pan to press them down. Let them sit for 30 minutes while the oven preheats.
  • After 30 minutes, wipe the eggplant slices with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Transfer the slices to a large baking sheet and brush both sides with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Roasting

  • Roast in the oven for 20 minutes.
  • While the eggplant roasts, mix the parmesan, breadcrumbs, and remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil in a small bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Assembly

  • Spread one cup of marinara sauce in a 9x13 baking dish. Once the eggplant slices have cooked for 20 minutes, arrange six slices in the bottom of the pan.
  • Spoon one tablespoon of sauce on top of each slice. Evenly divide the parmesan and breadcrumb mixture over the eggplant. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top. Place another slice of eggplant on each.
  • Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the eggplant and sprinkle it with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.

Baking

  • Bake in the oven for another 20 minutes, or until the eggplant is soft and the cheese is melted and golden. Serve right away.

Notes

For a crispier texture, use a broiler at the end of baking to brown the cheese further. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees until heated through.
Keyword Comfort Food, Eggplant Parmesan, Healthy Baked Eggplant Parmesan, Healthy Italian, Vegetarian