There’s something magical about Grilled Eggplant Parmesan. Picture this: smoky, tender slices of eggplant layered with rich marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of aromatic basil that dances in the air like a fragrant Italian symphony. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that awakens your senses and warms your heart.
Ah, the memories! I remember the first time I made Grilled Eggplant Parmesan for my family. It was a hot summer evening, and we gathered around the patio, laughter echoing through the air as the aroma of grilled vegetables swirled around us. Little did I know that this would become a beloved family tradition—perfect for casual dinners or special gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Grilled Eggplant Parmesan is an effortless dish that packs a punch of flavor while being visually stunning on your table
- The layers of cheese and sauce create a comforting meal that accommodates both vegetarian diets and meat lovers alike
- Perfect for summer barbecues but versatile enough for cozy nights in
I still chuckle when I think about my cousin mistaking the eggplant for zucchini during our first cook-off. It’s moments like these that make cooking memorable—and delicious!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Eggplant: Choose firm, shiny eggplants without blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce for an authentic taste.
Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for fresh mozzarella if you can find it; it melts beautifully and adds creaminess.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds richness; avoid pre-grated options for better flavor.
Fresh Basil: A must-have for garnish; its aromatic quality elevates the entire dish.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors while grilling.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate each layer of this dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preparing the Eggplant: Start by slicing your eggplant into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle them with salt to draw out moisture and bitterness—let them sit for about 30 minutes.
Grilling Time!: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush each side of the eggplant with olive oil before placing them on the grill grates. Grill until they have beautiful char marks—about 3-4 minutes per side.
Laying Down the Sauce: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. This prevents sticking while adding extra flavor.
Layering Magic!: Begin layering by placing grilled eggplant slices over the marinara. Add more sauce on top followed by generous portions of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Baking to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered until bubbly and golden brown—approximately 25-30 minutes. If you want an extra crispy top, broil for an additional minute or two.
Finishing Touches: Once out of the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for that irresistible aroma!
Enjoy every delicious layer as you dig into this comforting dish that brings everyone together at the table!
You Must Know
- Grilled Eggplant Parmesan is not just delicious; it’s a healthy twist on a classic dish
- The smoky flavor from grilling adds depth, making every bite memorable
- Enjoying this dish fresh out of the oven is an experience for the senses, with its vibrant colors and irresistible aroma
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by grilling the eggplant slices until tender, then layer them with marinara sauce and cheese for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in zucchini or mushrooms instead of eggplant for variety, or try different cheeses like ricotta or gouda.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain that delicious crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your Grilled Eggplant Parmesan turns out heavenly, press the eggplant slices before grilling to remove excess moisture
- This helps prevent sogginess during baking
- Always use fresh herbs for seasoning; they elevate the dish’s flavor significantly
- Layer your ingredients generously for a mouthwatering experience
Cooking this dish always reminds me of summer evenings spent with friends, where we’d gather around the grill, sharing laughs and stories while waiting for that cheesy goodness to bubble over.
FAQ
What’s the best way to slice eggplant?
Cut eggplant into ½-inch thick slices for even cooking and better layering.
Can I make Grilled Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, prepare layers in advance and bake before serving for best results.
What can I serve with Grilled Eggplant Parmesan?
Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal experience.
Grilled Eggplant Parmesan
Grilled Eggplant Parmesan combines smoky, tender eggplant with rich marinara and creamy cheeses for an irresistible dish. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe is both vegetarian-friendly and packed with flavor. Experience the warmth of family traditions as you savor each layered bite topped with fresh basil.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants (about 1 lb total)
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Slice eggplants into 1/4-inch rounds, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil and grill for 3-4 minutes per side until charred.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Layer grilled eggplant slices, more sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Broil for an additional minute for a crispy top.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving and garnish with fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
