Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan

Why Make This Recipe

Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan is a healthier twist on a classic Italian dish. By using an air fryer, you cut down on the amount of oil needed, making it lighter yet still flavorful. This dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a comforting meal without the guilt. Plus, eggplant is rich in nutrients and fiber, making it a great addition to your diet.

How to Make Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan

Ingredients

• 1 large eggplant or two small
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2/3 cup seasoned bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup marinara sauce (plus additional for serving if desired)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Thinly sliced fresh basil leaves or chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F.
2. Slice the eggplant into 1/2 inch slices and dry them with a paper towel.
3. In a medium bowl, mix the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
4. Place flour in one bowl and whisk the eggs in another.
5. Dip the eggplant slices first in the flour, then in the egg, and finally into the bread crumb mixture.
6. Spray each side of the eggplant with cooking spray and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
7. Cook for 5 minutes, then flip the slices over and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
8. Top with marinara sauce and shredded cheese, then cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve with extra marinara sauce if desired.
10. Cook in batches and avoid crowding the air fryer basket. Store leftovers in the fridge in a covered container for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to a month. Reheat in the air fryer or under the broiler until heated through and crispy again.

How to Serve Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan

Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan is delightful on its own or served with a side salad for a balanced meal. You can also pair it with pasta or crusty bread for a more filling option. Drizzle with more marinara sauce and top with fresh herbs to enhance the presentation and flavor.

How to Store Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan

To store leftovers, allow them to cool and place them in a covered container in the fridge. They can be kept for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to a month. Reheat them in the air fryer or under the broiler to restore some crispiness.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan

• Make sure to dry the eggplant slices well before breading to ensure they become crispy.
• Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone or gouda, for a different flavor profile.
• Adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of your eggplant slices to achieve the desired level of crispness.

Variation

Try adding roasted red peppers or sautéed spinach to the layers for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute the marinara sauce with pesto for a unique twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use other vegetables?
   Yes! You can use zucchini or even mushrooms for a different take on this recipe.

2. Is eggplant Parmesan gluten-free?
   You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.

3. How can I make it vegan?
   To make a vegan version, substitute the eggs with a mixture of ground flaxseed and water, and use vegan cheese or omit the cheese entirely.

Ellie

Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan

A healthier twist on the classic Italian dish, Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan uses less oil while still being flavorful and nutritious. Perfect for a guilt-free comfort meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course, Vegetarian

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 large eggplant or two small
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2/3 cup seasoned bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup marinara sauce plus additional for serving if desired
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• to taste thinly sliced fresh basil leaves or chopped fresh parsley for garnish optional

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F.
2. Slice the eggplant into 1/2 inch slices and dry them with a paper towel.
3. In a medium bowl, mix the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
4. Place flour in one bowl and whisk the eggs in another.
5. Dip the eggplant slices first in the flour, then in the egg, and finally into the bread crumb mixture.

Cooking

1. Spray each side of the eggplant with cooking spray and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
2. Cook for 5 minutes, then flip the slices over and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
3. Top with marinara sauce and shredded cheese, then cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve with extra marinara sauce if desired.

Notes

Cook in batches and avoid crowding the air fryer basket. Store leftovers in the fridge in a covered container for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to a month. Reheat in the air fryer or under the broiler until heated through and crispy again. Make sure to dry the eggplant slices well before breading to ensure they become crispy. Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone or gouda, for a different flavor profile. Adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of your eggplant slices to achieve the desired level of crispness. You can also add roasted red peppers or sautéed spinach for extra flavor.