Eggplant often gets a bad rap—some find it intimidating to cook, while others have had less-than-stellar experiences with its texture. But when prepared the right way, eggplant transforms into a rich, hearty, and incredibly satisfying dish. That’s exactly what happened when Supper Club participants at The Medallion, Williams Plaza, and Park Tower tried this recipe for Effortless Eggplant Parmesan— and we turned a few skeptics into eggplant lovers!
Originally published on Food52, this recipe proves that delicious doesn’t have to mean complicated. With a handful of simple ingredients, this dish delivers bold Italian-inspired flavors, a beautifully creamy texture, and an effortless elegance that makes it look like it took hours to prepare.
INGREDIENTS
2 medium eggplants
Kosher salt
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Freshly ground black pepper
2 large eggs
3 tablespoons milk
Olive oil
2 cups marinara sauce
8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Prep the Eggplant: Slice eggplant into ½-inch rounds. Lay them on a baking sheet, sprinkle with kosher salt, and let sit for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture. Pat dry.
Make the Breading: In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs with milk.
Bread & Bake: Dip each eggplant slice into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Assemble & Bake Again: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce, add a layer of baked eggplant slices, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
Final Bake: Bake uncovered at 375°F for 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Eggplant isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with health benefits:
💜 Heart-Healthy – High in fiber and antioxidants, eggplant supports cardiovascular health.
💜 Blood Sugar-Friendly – With a low glycemic index, eggplant helps regulate blood sugar levels.
💜 Brain-Boosting – Rich in anthocyanins, the compounds that give it its deep purple hue, eggplant supports brain function and reduces inflammation.
💜 Culinary Versatility – Whether roasted, sautéed, or baked, eggplant soaks up bold flavors and pairs beautifully with different spices and sauces.
"Eggplant is one of those ingredients that surprises people once they know how to use it. It’s hearty, nutritious, and incredibly versatile. At Supper Club, we’re all about making healthy eating accessible and enjoyable, and this dish has been a huge hit," says Natasha Butcher Cook, Supper Club Manager.
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