Looking for a comforting, classic Italian recipe? This Eggplant Parmigiana with Spaghetti is the perfect dish for any occasion. Crispy, golden eggplant slices are layered with rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, then baked until bubbly and delicious. Served over a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for Italian comfort food.
Whether you’re hosting family dinner or simply craving a vegetarian-friendly meal, this eggplant parmigiana is a crowd-pleasing and flavorful dish that’s easy to make from scratch. Let’s dive into how to make this tasty Italian classic at home!
🍝 Ingredients for Eggplant Parmigiana with Spaghetti
For the Eggplant:
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 tbsp salt (to sweat the eggplant)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil (for frying)
For the Layers:
- 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (extra for topping)
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- Salt, for pasta water
- Extra marinara sauce (for coating the pasta)
⭐️ Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Eggplant Parmigiana
1. Prepare the Eggplant:
To ensure your eggplant slices are tender and flavorful, sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This draws out moisture and bitterness. Once done, pat the slices dry with paper towels to remove any excess water.
2. Bread the Eggplant:
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
- One with all-purpose flour
- One with beaten eggs
- One with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Dredge each eggplant slice in the flour, dip into the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix, pressing gently to make sure the breading sticks.
3. Fry the Eggplant Slices:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Once fried, place the slices on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. Layer and Bake the Eggplant Parmigiana:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer the fried eggplant slices, spoon marinara sauce over each, and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of sauce and cheese on top.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Cook the Spaghetti:
While your eggplant parm is baking, cook your spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente (follow package instructions). Once done, drain the spaghetti and toss it with some marinara sauce to coat.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, plate a portion of spaghetti and top with a few slices of the baked eggplant parmigiana. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the flavors of Italy in every bite!
🍅 Why You’ll Love This Eggplant Parmigiana with Spaghetti:
- Vegetarian-friendly: A delicious option for those seeking a meatless meal without compromising on flavor.
- Classic Italian comfort food: This dish is a staple of Italian-American cuisine, combining crispy eggplant, tangy marinara, and gooey cheese.
- Family-friendly: A great option for family dinners, and it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Make-ahead meal: Perfect for preparing ahead of time and baking when you’re ready for a comforting dinner.
This Eggplant Parmigiana with Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to make, bursting with rich, cheesy goodness, and will have you feeling like you’re dining at a cozy Italian trattoria. Whether you’re a fan of eggplant or new to this delicious dish, this eggplant parmigiana recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it for a weeknight dinner or make it for your next special occasion!
Let me know how it turns out, and feel free to share your thoughts or any variations in the comments below!