Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan

A healthier, crispier take on a classic comfort food, made super easy in your air fryer!

Ingredients

• 🍆Eggplant(1 large)
• All-purpose flour(1/2 cup)
• 🥚Eggs(2 large, beaten)
• Breadcrumbs (Panko recommended)(1 cup)
• 🧀Parmesan cheese, grated(1/2 cup)
• 🥫Marinara sauce(1 cup)
• 🧀Mozzarella cheese, shredded(1 cup)
• Olive oil spray
• Salt(to taste)
• Black pepper(to taste)

Instructions

1. 1.Slice the eggplant into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Lay them on paper towels and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry.
2. 2.Set up a dredging station: one bowl with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.Dredge each eggplant slice first in flour, then in egg, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
4. 4.Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil.
5. 5.Working in batches, place a single layer of breaded eggplant slices in the air fryer basket. Spray the tops of the eggplant with olive oil.
6. 6.Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
7. 7.Once all eggplant is air-fried, spoon a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of an oven-safe dish or a larger air fryer safe pan (if your air fryer allows).
8. 8.Layer with air-fried eggplant, then more marinara sauce, and finally a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
9. 9.Repeat layers until all eggplant is used, finishing with sauce and mozzarella.
10. 10.Air fry for an additional 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through. (If using a dish, you might need to cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning of cheese).
11. 11.Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan!