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Healthy Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 34 reviews
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This healthy air fryer eggplant parmesan offers a lighter, lower-calorie alternative to traditional versions while delivering a perfectly crispy and golden crust topped with zesty tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Quick to prepare, this recipe uses an air fryer to achieve a deliciously crisp texture without excessive oil, making it a guilt-free and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

Eggplant and Coating

  • 1 medium eggplant
  • 2 cups Italian breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 large eggs

For Topping

  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Freshly chopped basil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Eggplant: Slice off the ends of the eggplant about ¼ inch from the stem. Then cut into ½-inch thick rounds. Dry slices on a baking sheet or paper towels if needed to remove excess moisture for better crisping.
  2. Make the Breadcrumb Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine Italian breadcrumbs, shredded parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Mix well to blend the flavors.
  3. Set Up the Dredging Station: Crack eggs into another shallow bowl, season with salt and pepper, and whisk until combined. Arrange the egg mixture, breadcrumb mixture, and eggplant slices for easy dipping.
  4. Bread the Eggplant: Dip each eggplant slice into the egg mixture, then thoroughly coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing breadcrumbs onto the surface. Place breaded slices back onto the baking sheet.
  5. Preheat the Air Fryer: Heat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C), which takes about 5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray.
  6. Cook the Eggplant: Arrange the breaded slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray the tops with olive oil cooking spray. Cook for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying the other side to ensure even crisping.
  7. Add Toppings and Melt Cheese: Once the eggplant is crispy, top each slice with tomato sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Return to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the air fryer, sprinkle with freshly chopped basil if desired, and serve hot for a healthy and delicious eggplant parmesan.

Notes

  • Choose a ripe eggplant that is shiny, dark purple, medium-sized, and heavy for the best flavor and texture.
  • You can store uncooked, sliced eggplant in a cool, dry place for 1–2 days.
  • Leftover cooked eggplant parmesan keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes to restore crispiness.

Find it online: https://emilysplate.com/healthy-air-fryer-eggplant-parmesan-recipe/