Description
This Easy Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan is a healthier twist on the classic Italian favorite. Slices of eggplant are breaded and air fried to a crispy golden perfection, then topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese for a delicious, comforting meal ready in just 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying vegetarian option.
Ingredients
Scale
Eggplant and Breading
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil spray
Toppings
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Remaining 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray the basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls for breading: one with flour seasoned with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper; one with the beaten eggs; and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bread the Eggplant: Coat each eggplant slice first in the seasoned flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Arrange the coated slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air Fry Eggplant: Cook the breaded eggplant slices for 10 minutes at 375°F, then flip them over and continue air frying for another 5-7 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown.
- Add Toppings and Melt Cheese: Spoon marinara sauce over each eggplant slice, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan. Return to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the breaded eggplant slices with olive oil before air frying.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, this recipe can be adapted for baking at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- You can substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer to retain crispness.
