Description
This Easy Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan recipe offers a crispy, cheesy twist on a classic Italian favorite. Using an air fryer, the eggplant slices are breaded and cooked to golden perfection with less oil, making it a healthier yet delicious alternative to traditional frying. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that serves 4.
Ingredients
Scale
Eggplant and Breading
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
Assembly and Topping
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray the basket with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote crispiness.
- Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour seasoned with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper; one with beaten eggs; and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with half of the Parmesan cheese. This will allow for an even, flavorful coating.
- Bread the Eggplant Slices: Dredge each eggplant slice first in the flour mixture, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, ensuring each slice is evenly covered.
- Air Fry the Eggplant: Arrange the breaded eggplant slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10 minutes, flip them gently, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Add Sauce and Cheese Toppings: Spoon marinara sauce on each cooked eggplant slice, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese. Return to the air fryer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For best results, make sure the eggplant slices are uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, this recipe can be adapted to bake in an oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- To reduce calories and fat, use part-skim mozzarella and spray olive oil lightly instead of drizzling.
- Adding fresh basil or oregano on top before serving enhances flavor.
