Name: Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 medium eggplant (sliced into ½-inch medallions); Kosher salt; ¾ cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs (beaten); 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated, divided); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano); Cooking spray; 3 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup mozzarella (shredded)

Are you ready to indulge in a crispy, cheesy delight that will have your taste buds dancing? Let me introduce you to the irresistible Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan! This dish transforms the classic Italian favorite into a healthier version without sacrificing flavor or texture. The air fryer gives the eggplant a delightful crunch while keeping it tender on the inside. With layers of marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this meal is perfect for any occasion—weeknight dinners, cozy gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why It Works Every Time

Air frying eggplant is a game changer! Traditionally, eggplant Parmesan is deep-fried, making it oily and heavy. By using an air fryer, we achieve that satisfying crunch with significantly less oil. The air fryer circulates hot air, allowing the eggplant to cook evenly while locking in moisture. Plus, the breading becomes beautifully golden and crispy, providing that perfect contrast to the rich marinara and melty cheese. Trust me, once you try Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan, you’ll never go back to the traditional method.

What Goes In

To create this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 medium eggplant, sliced into ½-inch medallions
Kosher salt
¾ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated, divided
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
Cooking spray
3 cups marinara sauce
1 cup mozzarella, shredded

Each ingredient plays a vital role in layering flavors and textures, ensuring every bite is a harmony of deliciousness.

Appliances & Accessories

To make this Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan, you’ll need the following appliances and accessories:

Air fryer: The star of the show, providing that perfect crisp.
Cutting board: For slicing your eggplant.
Chef’s knife: To cut the eggplant into medallions.
Three shallow bowls: For the breading station (flour, eggs, breadcrumbs).
Cooking spray: To help your eggplant crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Oven-safe dish: To layer your eggplant and sauce before serving.

With these tools at your disposal, you’re well on your way to creating a fantastic dish!

Cook Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Like This

Now, let’s get into the cooking process! Follow these simple steps to whip up your Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan:

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Start by slicing the eggplant into ½-inch thick medallions. Place them in a colander and sprinkle generously with kosher salt. This step is crucial as it helps draw out excess moisture and any bitterness from the eggplant. Let the eggplant sit for about 30 minutes, then rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In three shallow bowls, set up your breading station. Place the flour in the first bowl, beat the eggs in the second bowl, and combine the breadcrumbs, ¾ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning in the third bowl.

Step 3: Bread the Eggplant Medallions

Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat this process until all eggplant slices are coated.

Step 4: Air Fry the Eggplant

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the breaded eggplant slices in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Spray the tops with cooking spray to help them crisp up. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

In an oven-safe dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the crispy eggplant slices on top, followed by half of the remaining marinara sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the remaining Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers with the rest of the ingredients.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

And there you have it! A delicious Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan ready to be devoured!

Health-Conscious Tweaks

If you’re looking for ways to make this dish even more health-conscious, consider the following tweaks:

Use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber.
Swap half of the mozzarella for a lower-fat cheese option.
Add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini for added nutrients.
Try using a homemade marinara sauce with no added sugar.

These modifications can help you enjoy your Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan while keeping your health goals in mind.

Don’t Do This

To ensure your Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

Don’t skip the salting process—this step is key to removing bitterness.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary for even crisping.
Don’t rush the baking step; allowing the cheese to melt and become bubbly is essential for texture.
Don’t use fresh mozzarella; it contains too much moisture and can make the dish watery.

By steering clear of these mistakes, you’ll create a stunning dish that everyone will love!

Prep Ahead & Store

If you want to prepare your Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan in advance, here’s how you can do it:

Prep the eggplant and breading ingredients a day ahead. Store the breaded slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Assemble the layers in the baking dish a few hours prior to cooking. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Preparing ahead of time makes this dish even more convenient, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal effort!

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen eggplant for this recipe?

While fresh eggplant works best for texture, you can use frozen eggplant. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before breading.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, such as almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! To make a vegan version, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of eggs, and choose a plant-based cheese alternative.

How can I make my Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or mix some into the marinara sauce for an extra kick!

Bring It Home

This Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures! With its crispy exterior, gooey cheese, and rich marinara sauce, it’s sure to delight everyone at your table. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing for endless variations to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, with a side salad, or on its own, you’re in for a treat.

So gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and indulge in this hearty, flavorful dish. Your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite of your Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan. Happy cooking!