Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

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6
servings
1 tsp

Kosher Salt

2 cup

Bread Crumbs

1 tbsp

Dried Oregano

1 tbsp

Dried Thyme

1 tbsp

Dried Basil

0.5 tsp

Ground Black Pepper

3 tbsp

Olive Oil

For Frying

1 unit

Medium Eggplant

Cut Into 1/4-inch To 1/2-inch Slices

2 cup

Simple Tomato Sauce

8 ounce

Fresh Mozzarella

Thinly Sliced

23 cup

Grated Parmesan

Divided

Step 1
~4 min

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2
~4 min

In a shallow dish, combine kosher salt, bread crumbs, oregano, thyme, basil, and pepper.

Step 3
~4 min

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 4
~4 min

Dredge each eggplant slice in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.

Step 5
~4 min

Shake off excess breading.

Step 6
~4 min

Transfer 2-5 eggplant slices at a time to the hot skillet, avoiding overcrowding.

Step 7
~4 min

Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.

Step 8
~4 min

Remove cooked eggplant slices and place them on a dish lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 9
~4 min

Season with additional kosher salt and/or pepper, if desired.

Step 10
~4 min

Repeat with remaining eggplant slices.

Step 11
~4 min

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Key Technique: Baking
Step 12
~4 min

Lay the largest eggplant slice onto the prepared baking sheet as the base.

Key Technique: Baking
Step 13
~4 min

Spoon approximately 2-3 tablespoons of tomato sauce over the eggplant slice, coating it evenly.

Step 14
~4 min

Place sliced mozzarella cheese evenly over the tomato sauce.

Step 15
~4 min

Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the mozzarella.

Step 16
~4 min

Place the second largest eggplant slice on top and repeat the tomato sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan layering steps.

Key Technique: Layering
Step 17
~4 min

Continue layering the remaining eggplant slices, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan.

Key Technique: Layering
Step 18
~4 min

Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.

Step 19
~4 min

Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

For a richer flavor, use a high-quality tomato sauce.

Don't overcrowd the skillet when frying the eggplant.

Sprinkle a little extra parmesan cheese on top before baking for a crispier crust.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

20 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Can be assembled ahead of time and baked later.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Moderate
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad.

Serve with garlic bread.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Garlic Bread
Caesar Salad

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Italy

Cultural Significance

A classic Italian-American comfort food.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Christmas
Thanksgiving

Occasion Tags

Dinner Party
Family Meal

Popularity Score

75/100

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