Hearty Italian Eggplant Parmesan Bake

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil

Method

1. 01
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. 02
   Slice the eggplants into 1/4 inch rounds and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture.
3. 03
   Rinse the eggplant slices and pat them dry with paper towels.
4. 04
   Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
5. 05
   Dip each eggplant slice in flour, then egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
6. 06
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and fry the eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
7. 07
   Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, place a layer of fried eggplant slices, followed by more marinara sauce, and a layer of mozzarella cheese.
8. 08
   Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
9. 09
   Sprinkle dried oregano and basil over the top for added flavor.
10. 10
    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
11. 11
    Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.