Save A comforting, Italian-inspired casserole layering tender eggplant, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, finished with a golden Parmesan crust. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
I remember the first time I made Eggplant Parmesan Lasagna for my family. The kitchen filled with the aroma of garlic and herbs as the layers came together, and everyone was excited for such a cozy, satisfying meal. It has since become a requested favorite for Sunday dinners.
Ingredients
- Eggplants: 2 large, sliced lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick slices
- Salt: 1 tablespoon, for sweating eggplant
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup
- Eggs: 2 large, beaten
- Italian-style breadcrumbs: 1 1/2 cups
- Ricotta cheese: 2 cups
- Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups, shredded
- Parmesan cheese: 3/4 cup, grated
- Pecorino Romano cheese: 1/2 cup, grated (optional)
- Marinara sauce: 4 cups (homemade or store-bought)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Dried oregano: 1/2 teaspoon
- Dried basil: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- No-boil lasagna noodles: 9 (or regular, pre-cooked)
- Fresh basil leaves: 1/4 cup, chopped (for garnish)
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Instructions
- Prep the eggplant:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay eggplant slices on a baking sheet and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry with paper towels.
- Bread the eggplant:
- Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat in breadcrumbs.
- Bake the eggplant:
- Arrange breaded eggplant on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
- Make the sauce:
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more. Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Mix the cheese filling:
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the Parmesan and all of the Pecorino Romano (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
- Reduce oven temperature:
- Reduce oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer the lasagna:
- In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce. Place 3 lasagna noodles over sauce. Layer half the baked eggplant slices over noodles. Spread half of the ricotta mixture, then sprinkle with 1/3 of the mozzarella. Add another layer of sauce. Repeat with remaining noodles, eggplant, ricotta, and mozzarella. Top with final noodles, remaining sauce, and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake:
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 15 minutes more, until top is bubbly and golden.
- Rest and garnish:
- Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil.
Save Sharing this dish with my loved ones always brings us together at the table, laughing and enjoying generous helpings. It is a meal that feels special every time.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, 9x13-inch baking dish, saucepan, mixing bowls, whisk, knife and cutting board.
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (flour, breadcrumbs, lasagna noodles), Eggs, Milk (ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, Pecorino Romano). Double-check cheese and sauce labels for allergens if using pre-made products.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 510, Total Fat: 23 g, Carbohydrates: 48 g, Protein: 26 g.
Save Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh basil. Enjoy every comforting bite with your favorite company.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I prepare the eggplant to avoid bitterness?
Salt the sliced eggplant and let it sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture and bitterness, then pat dry before breading.
- → Can I substitute the baking method for a lighter option?
Yes, grilling the eggplant slices instead of breading and baking results in a lighter dish without sacrificing flavor.
- → What cheeses are best for layering in this dish?
Ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan create a rich and creamy texture while providing a blend of mild and sharp flavors.
- → How long should the assembled dish bake?
Cover and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden.
- → What herbs enhance the sauce for this dish?
Oregano, basil, and garlic sautéed with onions add depth and freshness to the marinara sauce layer.
- → Can gluten-free options be used without affecting the flavor?
Yes, substituting gluten-free breadcrumbs and noodles maintains the structure and taste with minimal difference.
