The Cheesy Barefoot Contessa Roasted Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

Roasted Eggplant Parmesan represents a mouthwatering Italian-inspired comfort food that transforms humble vegetables into a spectacular centerpiece.

Layers of tender, caramelized eggplant create a rich and satisfying foundation for this classic dish.

Crispy golden breadcrumbs and melted cheese elevate the recipe beyond ordinary vegetable preparations.

Mediterranean culinary traditions shine through in its robust flavor profile and elegant simplicity.

Home cooks appreciate how this dish balances nutrition with incredible taste sensations.

Each component contributes a unique texture and depth that makes the meal feel simultaneously rustic and refined.

Experience the Richness of Roasted Eggplant Parmesan

• Revolutionize Eggplant Roasting: Transform ordinary eggplant into a crispy, golden delicacy by roasting instead of traditional frying, cutting down on excess oil while achieving perfect texture and flavor.
• Layered Cheese Extravaganza: Create a decadent masterpiece with three different cheeses – creamy mozzarella, tangy goat cheese, and sharp Parmesan – delivering a rich, complex flavor profile that elevates the entire dish.
• Crispy Herbed Breadcrumb Topping: Pulse fresh basil, garlic, and breadcrumbs into a crunchy crown that adds irresistible texture and a burst of aromatic freshness to the classic eggplant Parmesan, making every bite exciting and delightful.

Essential Ingredients for Roasted Eggplant Parmesan

• Eggplant: Large, firm eggplants with smooth, shiny skin and no blemishes for best roasting results.
• Basil Leaves: Fresh herb with bright green color and strong aromatic profile for layering and topping.

• Mozzarella Cheese: Soft, mild cheese that melts beautifully and creates creamy texture.
• Goat Cheese: Tangy cheese that adds rich, distinctive flavor to the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Hard, salty cheese that provides excellent golden-brown topping and depth of flavor.

• Marinara Sauce: Classic tomato-based sauce that provides moisture and traditional Italian flavor.
• Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin oil for brushing and enhancing roasting process.
• Breadcrumbs: Dry, fine breadcrumbs for creating crispy golden topping.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves for adding aromatic punch to the topping.
• Oregano: Dried herb that complements eggplant's flavor profile.
• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings for enhancing overall taste and seasoning layers.

How to Make Roasted Eggplant Parmesan

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C). Arrange three oven racks evenly to create the perfect roasting environment for our delicious eggplant adventure.

Step 2: Prepare Eggplant Slices

• Dried oregano
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Step 3: First Roasting Round

Slide the baking sheets into the oven and roast for 15 minutes. Carefully flip each slice and rotate the trays to ensure even cooking. Roast for another 10 minutes until the eggplant becomes tender and slightly golden.

Step 4: Create Cheesy Layers

• Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce
• Add a layer of roasted eggplant
• Sprinkle fresh basil leaves
• Add dollops of mozzarella
• Crumble goat cheese
• Dust with Parmesan

Repeat these layers two more times, making sure to end with a sprinkle of Parmesan on top.

Step 5: Craft the Crunchy Topping

• Breadcrumbs
• Garlic cloves
• Fresh basil leaves

Pulse the mixture and drizzle in olive oil with a pinch of salt. Blend until it looks like delicious, crumbly goodness.

Step 6: Final Bake

Spread the crunchy topping evenly over your layered masterpiece. Bake in the oven for 45-50 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the edges are bubbling with cheesy excitement.

Step 7: Let It Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let your dish rest for 10 minutes.

Expert Tips for Roasted Eggplant Parmesan

• Roast with Precision: Arrange eggplant slices in a single layer on baking sheets to achieve maximum caramelization and prevent steaming.
• Salting Secrets: Draw out excess moisture by salting eggplant slices before roasting, which helps create a more concentrated and crispy texture.
• Cheese Layering Technique: Create beautiful cheese layers by alternating marinara, roasted eggplant, and cheese for a visually stunning and evenly distributed dish.
• Herb Infusion Hack: Crush dried herbs between your fingers before adding to breadcrumbs to release their full aromatic potential and boost flavor.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this dish a day in advance and reheat gently to allow flavors to meld together, creating an even more delicious meal.

Clever Storage for Roasted Eggplant Parmesan

• Freeze First: Lock in peak flavor by freezing completely cooled Roasted Eggplant Parmesan. Double-wrap the dish in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Mark the container with the date and consume within 3 months for best taste and texture.
• Refrigerate Strategically: Store leftovers in a sealed glass or ceramic container to maintain moisture and prevent flavor absorption from other foods. Position the container on a middle shelf where temperature remains consistent. Consume refrigerated portions within 4 days for maximum freshness and safety.
• Reheat Carefully: Restore the dish's original crispy edges and melted cheese by using the oven method. Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure food safety.

Creative Variations on Roasted Eggplant Parmesan

• Mediterranean Zucchini Parmesan: Replace eggplant with thinly sliced zucchini, keeping the same roasting and layering technique. Add crumbled feta cheese for extra Mediterranean flavor.
• Spicy Jalapeño Eggplant Bake: Mix diced jalapeños into the marinara sauce and sprinkle red pepper flakes over the layers. Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for an extra kick.
• Vegan Vegetable Stack: Substitute dairy cheeses with cashew-based vegan cheese alternatives. Include layers of roasted bell peppers and spinach for additional nutrition and color depth.
• Herb Garden Eggplant: Incorporate fresh thyme and rosemary into the breadcrumb topping. Use a mix of ricotta and goat cheese for a more complex cheese profile. Garnish with fresh herb leaves before serving.

Parting Thoughts on Roasted Eggplant Parmesan

Barefoot Contessa’s roasted eggplant parmesan emerges as culinary poetry, bridging rustic Italian traditions with modern kitchen artistry.

Mediterranean flavors dance through each carefully layered slice, revealing depth beyond classic comfort cuisine.

Crisp breadcrumb topping provides delightful texture against creamy cheese medleys.

Herb-infused marinara sauce weaves richness throughout delicate eggplant layers.

Seasoned home chefs will discover this recipe transcends ordinary meal preparation, creating memorable dining experiences.

Passionate palates crave connection – share this kitchen masterpiece, spark conversation in comments, and invite fellow epicureans to explore Ina Garten’s delectable dish.

Barefoot Contessa Roasted Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

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4.6 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Ina Garten’s roasted eggplant parmesan elevates classic Italian comfort with a lighter, crisp twist. Layers of golden eggplant, rich marinara, and melted cheeses create a Mediterranean masterpiece you’ll savor down to the last delicious bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1.1 kg (2.5 lbs) eggplant, unpeeled, halved lengthwise, and sliced 6-8 mm (¼–⅓ inch) thick
• 450 g fresh buffalo mozzarella, thinly sliced
• 225 g garlic and herb goat cheese
• 150 g (1.5 cups) freshly grated italian Parmesan
• 700 g marinara sauce

Seasonings and Herbs:

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1.5 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1.5 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Oils and Additional Ingredients:

• 180 ml (¾ cup) good olive oil
• 60 ml (¼ cup) good olive oil
• 130 g (1.3 cups) fresh breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by positioning three racks evenly and heating to 200°C (400°F), ensuring uniform temperature distribution.
2. Transform eggplant slices into a culinary canvas by meticulously arranging them across three baking sheets in a single, precise layer. Lavish both surfaces with a generous olive oil brush, then sprinkle with aromatic oregano, delicate salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Initiate the roasting process by placing eggplant trays in the heated oven. After 15 minutes, carefully flip each slice and rotate the trays to guarantee even caramelization. Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the eggplant achieves a tender, golden texture. Maintain the oven’s temperature.
4. Craft the layered masterpiece in a 25×35×5 cm (10×14×2-inch) ceramic baking dish. Commence with a foundational spread of one-third marinara sauce, followed by a harmonious arrangement of one-third roasted eggplant, fragrant basil leaves, creamy mozzarella, tangy goat cheese, and nutty Parmesan. Repeat this symphony of flavors twice, culminating with a Parmesan crown.
5. Elevate the topping by pulsing breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and fresh basil in a food processor. Introduce a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt, blending until a cohesive mixture forms. Distribute this aromatic crumb layer evenly across the dish’s surface.
6. Return the assembled dish to the oven, allowing it to bake for 45-50 minutes. Watch for the telltale signs of culinary perfection: bubbling edges and a golden-brown crust that promises delectable flavors.
7. Exercise patience by allowing the dish to rest at room temperature for 10 minutes, permitting the layers to settle and the flavors to meld before presenting this gastronomic creation.

Notes

• Slice eggplant thin and consistently to guarantee uniform cooking and prevent soggy or burnt sections.
• Sprinkle salt on eggplant slices and let them rest for 30 minutes to draw out moisture, which reduces bitterness and improves texture.
• Opt for premium marinara sauce with rich tomato flavor, selecting brands like Rao’s for restaurant-quality taste without extensive preparation.
• Grate Parmesan and tear fresh mozzarella moments before assembling to ensure maximum melting and creamy consistency.
• Toast breadcrumbs with chopped herbs like basil and parsley to create a crispy, fragrant topping that elevates the entire dish.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 284g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 590mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 13g
• Cholesterol: 25mg