Description
Healthy Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious and guilt-free twist on the classic Italian dish. This recipe features tender, air-fried eggplant slices layered with rich marinara sauce and gooey cheese, creating a satisfying meal that perfectly balances flavor and health. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress while keeping your calorie count in check.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium eggplants (about 1 pound total)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Slice eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle salt on both sides and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in eggs, then coat in panko.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange breaded slices in a single layer, lightly spray with olive oil, and air fry for 12-15 minutes until golden brown, shaking halfway through.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Layer half of the crispy eggplants followed by half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers.
- Top with Parmesan and drizzle olive oil. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying/Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 200g
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 150mg