Authentic Parmigiana di Melanzane

A plate of baked eggplant parmesan topped with tomato sauce and fresh basil, served with a fork on a white plate. A pan of the dish and a bowl of spices are in the background.

Authentic Parmigiana di Melanzane

Parmigiana di melanzane is a classic Italian dish made with tender eggplant layered with rich marinara and melted cheese. Each layer bakes together into a hearty, comforting casserole meant to be shared. It’s a traditional favorite that feels special without being complicated

Course Main Dishes, Side Dish

Cuisine American, International, Italian

Keyword eggplant, eggplant parmesan, eggplant parmigiana, eggplant slices, fry, layer of eggplant, mozzarella, parmigiana, parmigiana di melanzane, salt, sicilian, tomato sauce

Prep Time 1 5

Cook Time 1

Resting Time 10

Servings Servings

Calories 456kcal

Author Zuzana Paar

Equipment

1 Skillet
1 Baking Dish
1 Oven
1 Baking Rack

Ingredients

1 Cup Olive Oil divided
½ Cup Parmigiano Reggiano grated
3 Cups Marinara Sauce
3 Tablespoons Salt divided
1 Pound Mozzarella shredded
½ teaspoon Black Pepper
2 Pieces Large Eggplants sliced into ½-inch disks
1 Tablespoon Italian Herb Seasoning
¼ Cup Fresh Basil torn

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325°Fahrenheit (162°Celsius) and gather the eggplants, marinara, mozzarella, Parmesan, basil, and seasonings so everything is ready to use.
Lay eggplant slices on a rack, sprinkle with kosher salt, cover with a weighted tray, and let sit for about 1 hour. Rinse or wipe off salt and pat completely dry.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry eggplant slices 3–5 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
Layer marinara, eggplant, cheeses, basil, and seasoning in a baking dish, finishing with mozzarella. Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes, then rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Salt the eggplant before cooking: Sprinkle salt on the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This helps remove extra moisture and any bitterness.
Fry or bake the eggplant slices: Frying gives a richer taste, while baking is lighter and cleaner. Choose the method that fits your style of cooking.
Use fresh marinara sauce: A simple homemade tomato sauce or marinara sauce with garlic and basil will give the dish a true Italian flavor. Fresh sauce always tastes better than store-bought.
Layer cheese and sauce evenly: Make sure each layer has enough sauce and cheese for balance. This keeps the dish moist and flavorful from top to bottom.

Nutrition