If you’ve been craving a comforting Italian classic but want a lighter and quicker version, this Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Recipe is exactly what you need. Crisp, golden eggplant slices are coated in a crunchy, savory breading and cooked to perfection in the air fryer, then topped with zesty marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella. This method not only cuts down on oil but also amps up the crunch and keeps the inside tender. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an easy weeknight winner, this dish may just become your new favorite way to enjoy eggplant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each bringing something special to the table—from the delicate sweetness of eggplant to the sharp, salty punch of Parmesan cheese. The simplicity means you probably have most of these at home already, and they come together to make each bite irresistible in texture and flavor.
- 1 large eggplant (or two small): Provides a hearty base that soaks up flavor while staying tender inside.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Helps the breading stick to each slice for that perfect crust.
- 2 large eggs (beaten): Acts like a glue keeping the bread crumbs firmly attached to the eggplant.
- â…” cup seasoned bread crumbs: Adds crispiness and a flavorful crunch with every bite.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses a nutty, savory depth right into the breading.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings classic herbaceous notes that elevate the overall taste.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a subtle hint of garlic without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Provides a tangy, tomato-based layer that complements the fried eggplant.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating that gooey, irresistible top layer.
- Thinly sliced fresh basil leaves (or chopped fresh parsley for garnish, optional): Adds a burst of fresh aroma and color as a finishing touch.
How to Make Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by setting your air fryer to 380°F so it heats while you prep the eggplant. This ensures each slice cooks evenly and crisps just right.
Step 2: Prep the Eggplant Slices
Slice the eggplant into half-inch thick rounds and gently pat them dry with paper towels. Removing moisture helps the breading stick better and prevents sogginess.
Step 3: Prepare the Breading Mixtures
In a medium bowl, combine the seasoned bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. In separate bowls, place the flour and beaten eggs. This classic dredging station gets everything ready for coating the eggplant slices perfectly.
Step 4: Coat the Eggplant
Dip each slice first in the flour, pressing gently to cover, then into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press the slices firmly into the bread crumb mixture to ensure an even, crispy crust.
Step 5: Air Fry the Eggplant
Lightly spray both sides of each coated eggplant slice with cooking spray and arrange them in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook for about 5 minutes, then carefully flip the slices and continue cooking for another 4 to 5 minutes until golden and crisp.
Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese
Spoon marinara sauce over each cooked eggplant slice and sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top. Return to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes or until the cheese melts to luscious perfection.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the eggplant parmesan from the air fryer, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve with extra marinara sauce on the side if you like it saucy. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness immediately while it’s warm!
How to Serve Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only brightens the plate but also lifts the flavor, offering a fresh contrast to the rich, cheesy eggplant. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan can also add an elegant finish.
Side Dishes
This eggplant parmesan pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or even a light pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs. The idea is to keep the sides fresh and straightforward so the star dish really shines.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Layer the eggplant slices in a casserole dish with extra mozzarella and sauce for a baked version, or serve individual slices stacked with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a fancy twist. These presentations make it perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover eggplant parmesan in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The breading may soften slightly, but reheating in the air fryer or oven restores much of its original crispiness.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze cooked eggplant parmesan in a tightly sealed container for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to preserve the flavors and textures.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is using the air fryer at a lower temperature or an oven set around 350°F. This method crisps the breading nicely without drying out the interior or cheese, giving you almost freshly cooked results.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, you can mix in provolone, fontina, or even a bit of sharp cheddar for a unique cheesy twist that still melts beautifully over the eggplant.
Do I need to salt the eggplant before breading?
Salting eggplant helps reduce bitterness and excess moisture, but the variety and freshness of eggplant today means this step is optional. If your eggplant is quite watery, a quick salt and rest can help improve texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour and bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Many stores offer seasoned gluten-free breading mixes that work perfectly in this Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Recipe.
Is using an air fryer healthier than frying on the stovetop?
Definitely. Air frying uses significantly less oil while still delivering a crispy exterior, making this recipe a lighter yet still indulgent take on traditional fried eggplant parmesan.
How long does it take to cook the eggplant in the air fryer?
The total air frying time is about 9 to 10 minutes for the eggplant slices, plus 2 to 3 minutes more after adding the sauce and cheese to melt. It’s quick and frees you up to prep other parts of your meal.
Final Thoughts
If you love Italian flavors but want an easier, less greasy way to enjoy eggplant parmesan, this Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Recipe is a game changer. It’s crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor—all with less mess and fuss. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will be on repeat in your kitchen. Give it a go and savor every delicious bite!
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Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan is a healthier twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring crispy breaded eggplant slices topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Using an air fryer ensures a perfectly golden crust with less oil, making it a quick and delicious meal perfect for weeknights or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Eggplant and Breading
- 1 large eggplant (or two small)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- â…” cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Assembly
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus additional for serving if desired)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Thinly sliced fresh basil leaves or chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F and allow it to preheat while you prepare the eggplant.
- Prepare Eggplant: Slice the eggplant into ½-inch thick slices. Use a paper towel to dry each slice gently to remove excess moisture.
- Mix Breading: In a medium bowl, combine the seasoned bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder thoroughly.
- Prepare Coating Stations: Place the all-purpose flour in one bowl, and the whisked eggs in another to create a three-step breading station.
- Bread the Eggplant: Dip each eggplant slice first into the flour, ensuring full coverage, then into the beaten eggs, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Air Fry First Side: Lightly spray both sides of the breaded eggplant slices with cooking spray. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping.
- Cook and Flip: Air fry for 5 minutes, then carefully flip each slice over and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon marinara sauce over each cooked eggplant slice, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese, then continue cooking in the air fryer for 2 to 3 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the eggplant parmesan from the air fryer, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if using, and serve hot alongside additional marinara sauce if desired.
Notes
- For best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even crisping; cook in batches if necessary.
- To reduce moisture, you may salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 15 minutes before drying and breading.
- Use gluten-free bread crumbs and flour alternatives to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Fresh herbs like basil add bright flavor but can be substituted or omitted based on availability and preference.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.
