Eggplant Parmesan Bake

Name: Eggplant Parmesan Bake
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cups marinara sauce; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Ideas

I absolutely love making Eggplant Parmesan Bake for gatherings with family and friends. The blend of crispy eggplant layers, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese always impresses everyone. It’s a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. I find myself reaching for this recipe time and again because it perfectly balances robust flavors and wholesome ingredients. It's a delightful way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with a twist, and I guarantee it will become a favorite in your home, just as it is in mine.

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:45:36.505Z

When I first tried making Eggplant Parmesan Bake, I was surprised by how simple the process was. I loved the texture of the eggplant when it's baked; it becomes tender yet retains a slight bite. Layering it with marinara sauce and mozzarella creates a perfect harmony of flavors. I recommend salting the eggplant slices and letting them sit for about 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This enhances the flavor and helps achieve that golden, crispy finish!

One tip I learned is to use fresh herbs in the sauce for an added layer of flavor. A little basil goes a long way! Even my friends who aren’t big eggplant fans ended up asking for seconds, which truly says something about this dish. It’s a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, bringing joy to both the cook and the guests.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Layers of crispy eggplant with tangy marinara sauce
Generous amount of gooey melted cheese for indulgence
A crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion

The Importance of Salting Eggplant

Salting the eggplant before cooking is a crucial step that enhances the texture and flavor of this dish. By drawing out moisture, salting helps to prevent the eggplant from becoming soggy during baking. You'll notice that after resting for 20 minutes, the slices will have released a significant amount of water. Rinsing and drying them afterward ensures that they fry up crispy, adding a wonderful contrast to the rich tomato sauce and gooey cheese.

If you're short on time or forgot to salt your eggplant, a quick fix is to slice it thinner, about 1/8-inch, which allows for less moisture retention. However, be aware that thinner slices may cook faster, so keep a close eye on them during layering and baking to avoid overcooking.

Layering for Maximum Flavor

When layering the ingredients, think of it as building a flavor profile. Start with a generous spread of marinara sauce to create a moist base that infuses its flavor into the eggplant. Each subsequent layer of eggplant, cheese, and sauce should be done carefully to ensure an even distribution. For optimal melting and browning, a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan works best; mozzarella provides the stretch while Parmesan contributes rich, nutty flavors.

I like to reserve a bit of both cheeses to sprinkle on the very top layer just before the final bake. This creates a beautifully golden crust that is both visually appealing and adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness. Don’t rush this part—layering thoughtfully is key to an impressive presentation.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Ingredients for Eggplant Parmesan Bake

2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups marinara sauce
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before you start assembling the bake.

Instructions

Let’s get started on creating this delicious cake.

Prepare the Eggplant

Start by salting the sliced eggplant to draw out moisture. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet, sprinkle salt over them, and let them sit for 20 minutes. Afterward, rinse off the salt and pat the slices dry with paper towels.

Layer the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of eggplant slices over the sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, ending with a cheese layer on top.

Bake the Dish

Drizzle olive oil over the top layer of cheese and sprinkle oregano and basil. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the Eggplant Parmesan Bake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Now, you can enjoy your delicious eggplant parmesan bake!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or mix in sautéed mushrooms with the eggplant layers.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Eggplant Parmesan Bake can be prepared ahead of time, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate, then bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.

For storing leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be aware that the texture may not be as optimal as oven reheating.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this Eggplant Parmesan Bake to suit your preferences! For a healthier option, consider substituting the regular cheese with part-skim versions or using a mix of low-fat ricotta and cottage cheese for the layers. You could also add sautéed vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, between the eggplant layers for added nutrition and flavor.

If you’re looking for a gluten-free variant, ensure that the marinara sauce you choose is free from gluten and consider making your own for a fresher taste. To spice things up, adding red pepper flakes between the layers can give your dish a pleasant kick of heat that complements the melty cheese.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Zucchini or bell peppers can work great alongside or in place of the eggplant.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it right before serving.

→ What can I serve with Eggplant Parmesan Bake?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.