Description
This air fryer eggplant parmesan recipe delivers a crispy, cheesy, and delicious dish that’s healthier than the traditional version. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any time!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned recommended)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs mixed with oregano and garlic powder.
- Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip into the egg, and then coat with breadcrumbs. Place the breaded slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry the eggplant for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce, then layer half of the air-fried eggplant slices, followed by half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layers.
- Top with remaining marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
- Air fry the assembled eggplant parmesan at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add Italian herbs to the breadcrumbs.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 6
- Protein: 14
- Cholesterol: 150
Keywords: eggplant parmesan recipe, air fryer eggplant parmesan, easy eggplant parmesan, healthy eggplant parmesan, vegetarian eggplant parmesan