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air fryer eggplant parmesan italian

Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan

This quick and easy version of classic Eggplant Parmesan is made in an air fryer. It features crispy, golden eggplant slices topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, making it a delicious, healthier alternative to the traditional dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Salting 30 minutes
Total Time 58 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Dish, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium eggplants about 1-1.5 pounds each
  • Salt for salting eggplant slices
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese preferably block cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups marinara sauce preferably Rao's Homemade Marinara
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Olive oil spray or avocado oil spray

Method
 

Prepare the Eggplant:
  1. Slice the eggplant into ½-inch thick rounds.
  2. Place the slices on a wire rack over a sheet pan and sprinkle both sides generously with salt.
  3. Let the eggplant rest for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. You will notice small beads of moisture form on the surface.
  4. After 30 minutes, gently pat each slice with a paper towel to remove excess moisture and salt.
Prepare the Breading:
  1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 1 tablespoon of milk.
  2. In another shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Bread the Eggplant:
  1. Dip each eggplant slice into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
  2. Place the breaded slices on a clean tray and let them rest for 5 minutes to set the breading.
Cook the Eggplant:
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F for 2 minutes.
  2. Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray, then arrange the breaded eggplant slices in a single layer. Avoid overlapping.
  3. Cook the first batch for 8-10 minutes without opening the basket, until crispy and golden brown.
Top with Marinara and Cheese:
  1. After 8-10 minutes, carefully top each eggplant slice with about 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce.
  2. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella on each slice.
  3. Return the slices to the air fryer and cook for 1-2 more minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned at the edges.
Repeat the Process:
  1. Repeat steps 4 and 5 with the remaining eggplant slices.
Serve:
  1. Serve the Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan immediately with a side of salad, pasta, or as a light main dish. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

  • Make sure to choose medium-sized, firm eggplants for the best texture.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for a more flavorful result.
  • Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model and eggplant slice thickness.
  • To reheat, place leftovers in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F to restore crispiness.