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air fryer eggplant parmesan: 5 Perfect Steps for Crispy Layers


  • Author: ushinzomr

Description

This Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan is a healthier twist on the classic dish, featuring crispy eggplant slices layered with marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  3. In another shallow dish, place the beaten eggs.
  4. In a third shallow dish, add the breadcrumbs.
  5. Coat each eggplant slice in the flour mixture, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Press lightly to adhere the breadcrumbs.
  6. Arrange the breaded eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to do this in batches.
  7. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  8. In a baking dish, spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the crispy eggplant slices over the sauce.
  9. Add half of the remaining marinara sauce on top of the eggplant, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese.
  10. Repeat the layers with the remaining eggplant, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
  11. Air fry the assembled dish at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  12. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve hot.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, you can add Italian seasoning to the breadcrumbs.
  • Make sure to slice the eggplant evenly for consistent cooking.
  • If you prefer a thicker marinara layer, feel free to add more sauce.

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