What happens when you combine the irresistible flavors of eggplant parmesan with the soul-warming satisfaction of a hearty pasta dish? You get eggplant parmesan pasta, a delightful fusion that guarantees comfort and joy in every bite. Tender eggplant, rich marinara sauce, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta come together to create a meal that’s as inviting as it is satisfying. Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can put this dish together with confidence. Let's get started!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the eggplant:
- 2 medium eggplants, cut into ½-inch rounds
- 1 teaspoon salt (for sweating the eggplant)
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
For the pasta and sauce:
- 12 ounces of penne or rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Kitchen Tip:
When choosing eggplants, go for ones that are firm and have shiny, smooth skin. Smaller eggplants tend to have fewer seeds and a sweeter flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Eggplant
Start by salting the eggplant slices. Lay the rounds on a baking sheet lined with paper towels, and sprinkle them with salt on both sides. This helps to draw out any bitterness and excess moisture. Let them sit for about 20 minutes. Once done, rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Bread the Eggplant
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Whisked eggs
- Bowl 3: A mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Dip each eggplant slice into the flour, then into the eggs, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each slice is evenly covered.
3. Fry the Eggplant
Heat about ¼ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the eggplant slices in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. For a lighter option, you can bake the slices in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Cook the Pasta
While your eggplant cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
5. Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish.
- Add the cooked pasta on top, and pour the remaining marinara sauce over it. Add reserved pasta water if you want a slightly saucier consistency.
- Layer the fried eggplant slices over the pasta, and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you love a golden, slightly crispy cheese topping, switch on the broiler for a couple of minutes at the end (but keep an eye on it!).
7. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm, and watch as the cheesy, saucy goodness earns rave reviews!
Tips for Success
- Make it your own: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or mix in sautéed spinach and mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Opt for fresh Parmesan: Grating Parmesan cheese right from the block gives a much better flavor than pre-packaged varieties.
- Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta for an allergy-friendly version.
Final Thoughts
Eggplant parmesan pasta is a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort to the table with every bite. It’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again, especially as the weather cools and you’re craving hearty meals. The combination of crispy eggplant, tender pasta, and melted cheese ensures it’ll leave everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!
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