Ultimate Baked Eggplant Parm Recipe for a Deliciously Healthy Dinner

#### Baked Eggplant Parm RecipeIf you’re looking for a comforting yet healthy dish, this **baked eggplant parm recipe** is the perfect choice. This Italian……

#### Baked Eggplant Parm Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting yet healthy dish, this **baked eggplant parm recipe** is the perfect choice. This Italian classic has been reinvented to be lighter and packed with flavor, making it an excellent option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

#### Ingredients

To create the perfect baked eggplant parm, you will need the following ingredients:

- 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds

- Salt (for sweating the eggplant)

- Olive oil (for brushing)

- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon dried basil

- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

#### Preparation Steps

1. **Prepare the Eggplant**: Start by sprinkling the sliced eggplant with salt and letting it sit for about 30 minutes. This process, known as "sweating," helps to draw out excess moisture and bitterness from the eggplant. After 30 minutes, rinse the slices under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

2. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the eggplant until it’s tender and slightly caramelized.

3. **Brush with Olive Oil**: Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides. This will help them crisp up while baking.

4. **Bake the Eggplant**: Bake the eggplant in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. You want them to be golden brown and tender.

5. **Assemble the Dish**: In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of baked eggplant slices on top, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce and a generous topping of cheese.

6. **Seasoning**: Sprinkle dried oregano and basil on top for added flavor.

7. **Final Bake**: Bake the assembled eggplant parm in the oven for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

8. **Garnish and Serve**: Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

#### Tips for the Best Baked Eggplant Parm

- **Choose the Right Eggplant**: Look for firm, shiny eggplants without blemishes. Smaller eggplants tend to be less bitter.

- **Add More Veggies**: Feel free to add layers of zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

- **Make It Ahead**: This dish can be made ahead of time. Just assemble it and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

#### Conclusion

This **baked eggplant parm recipe** is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to eat healthier, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy the layers of flavor, the gooey cheese, and the comforting taste of homemade Italian cuisine!