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Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan

A healthier twist on a classic Italian dish, featuring crispy air-fried eggplant, marinara sauce, and melted cheese.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Vegetarian
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 large Large eggplant
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs Creates a crispy exterior.
  • 1/2 cup Almond flour Adds nuttiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian spice blend Enhances the dish with Italian herbs.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper Adds a little kick.
  • 2 medium Eggs Binds the breading.
  • cooking spray Olive oil cooking spray Helps achieve a golden-brown color.
  • 1 cup Marinara sauce Provides a rich topping.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully.
  • fresh Basil For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
  2. Slice eggplant into ½” round slices and dry with a paper towel.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, almond flour, garlic powder, Italian spice blend, salt, and black pepper.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs.
  5. Dip each eggplant slice into the egg, then into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to adhere.
  6. Spray both sides of the breaded eggplant with olive oil cooking spray and place in a single layer in the air fryer.
Cooking
  1. Air fry eggplant for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  2. Add a spoonful of marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella on each slice and air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until cheese melts.
Serving
  1. Serve with additional marinara sauce and fresh basil as garnish.

Notes

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. It can be meal prepped and stored for later use, either refrigerated or frozen.