Eggplant Parmesan Bake

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Eggplant Parmesan Bake.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C).

2. Step 2

   While the oven warms up, grab your eggplants and slice them crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rounds, aiming for about 10 slices.

3. Step 3

   Don’t forget to peel and dice any leftover eggplant pieces; they’ll add great flavor to the dish.

4. Step 4

   Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

5. Step 5

   Lightly sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt, then cook them in batches for about 3 minutes on each side until they’re just starting to soften.

6. Step 6

   Once done, transfer the slices to paper towels to soak up any excess oil.

7. Step 7

   In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the sliced garlic, sautéing it for about 10 seconds until fragrant.

8. Step 8

   Now, add the diced eggplant, seasoning it with salt and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

9. Step 9

   Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes until everything is nice and tender.

10. Step 10

    Stir in your marinara sauce along with a splash of water, then lower the heat to medium-low.

11. Step 11

    Let it simmer for around 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

12. Step 12

    If the sauce thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add a little more water to keep it saucy.

13. Step 13

    While that simmers, let’s prepare the cheesy filling! In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, pepperjack cheese, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper until everything is well combined.

14. Step 14

    Now, take about 2 tablespoons of this delightful cheese mixture and spread it over each eggplant slice, then fold them in half to create little pockets of cheesy goodness.

15. Step 15

    In an 8x8-inch baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom.

16. Step 16

    Arrange your folded eggplant slices in a single layer over the sauce, then pour the remaining sauce on top, covering everything in that rich, flavorful goodness.

17. Step 17

    For the finishing touch, mix together the breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a separate bowl until it’s all well blended.

18. Step 18

    Sprinkle this crunchy mixture evenly over the casserole for that perfect golden topping.

19. Step 19

    Now, it’s time to bake! Place your dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the breadcrumbs are beautifully golden brown.

20. Step 20

    The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible, and soon you’ll have a delicious eggplant casserole ready to impress! Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish.