Grilled Eggplant Parmesan Recipe

Introduction

Grilled Eggplant Parmesan is a lighter, smoky take on the classic Italian comfort food. By grilling the eggplant instead of frying it, this dish retains all the delicious flavors and textures of traditional Eggplant Parmesan, but with fewer calories and a satisfying charred flavor. Layers of grilled eggplant, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese come together to create a mouthwatering, healthier version of this timeless favorite.

This dish is a perfect option for a summer meal, a vegetarian dinner, or an impressive addition to any gathering. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, Grilled Eggplant Parmesan is easy to prepare, and the smoky grilled flavor elevates the entire dish. This guide walks you through the preparation steps, offers tips for success, and suggests fun variations to enhance your meal.

Why You’ll Love Grilled Eggplant Parmesan

• Healthy and Flavorful: Grilling the eggplant imparts a smoky, slightly charred flavor, while eliminating the excess oil used in frying. The dish is lighter without sacrificing the rich, cheesy goodness that makes Eggplant Parmesan so beloved.
• Classic Comfort with a Twist: All the elements of classic Eggplant Parmesan are here—grilled eggplant, marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan—combined in a fresh way for a dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
• Perfect Texture: The grilled eggplant provides a smoky, slightly crisp exterior while maintaining a tender, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Layering the eggplant with marinara and cheeses creates a beautiful balance of flavors and textures.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish is a wonderful vegetarian option, loaded with fresh vegetables, herbs, and savory cheeses, making it both delicious and nutritious.
• Easy to Prepare: Despite its layers and robust flavor, Grilled Eggplant Parmesan comes together with minimal effort. The grilling process is quick and easy, making this a perfect weeknight dinner or a weekend favorite.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 300-350 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Protein: 12-14g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 8-10g

Ingredients

For the Grilled Eggplant Parmesan:

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
• Olive oil, for brushing
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

For the Bread Crumb Coating (Optional):

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplant

Start by washing and drying the eggplants. Cut off both ends, then slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds. If the eggplants are large, you can slice them in half vertically before cutting them into rounds to make more manageable pieces.

Place the sliced eggplant on a paper towel or clean kitchen towel, and lightly sprinkle with salt. Allow the eggplant to sit for about 15-20 minutes. This step helps draw out any excess moisture and bitterness from the eggplant. After resting, use a paper towel to blot the slices dry.

2. Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using an outdoor grill, make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. If you’re using an indoor grill pan, preheat it over medium-high heat as well. Brushing the eggplant slices with olive oil before grilling will help them achieve a beautiful char.

3. Grill the Eggplant

Brush both sides of each eggplant slice with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, if using. Place the eggplant slices on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the eggplant is tender. Be sure not to overcrowd the grill—grill the eggplant in batches if necessary.

Once the eggplant slices are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and set them aside. If you’re adding crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat, sprinkle them over the grilled eggplant now.

4. Assemble the Grilled Eggplant Parmesan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the eggplant is grilled, it’s time to assemble the Grilled Eggplant Parmesan.

Start by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange a layer of grilled eggplant slices on top of the sauce. Top the eggplant with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese. If you’re using fresh basil, scatter some basil leaves between the layers for a fresh, aromatic flavor.

Continue layering with marinara sauce, eggplant, mozzarella, Parmesan, and basil until you’ve used all the eggplant slices. Finish the final layer with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, ensuring the top is generously covered with cheese.

5. Bake the Grilled Eggplant Parmesan

Once the dish is assembled, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

If you prefer a more caramelized top, you can broil the dish for 1-2 minutes, but be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.

6. Prepare the Breadcrumb Coating (Optional)

If you want to add a crispy breadcrumb topping, this is the time to prepare it. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, parsley (if using), Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Toss to combine. Once the Grilled Eggplant Parmesan is finished baking, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top and return it to the oven for 2-3 minutes to crisp up the topping.

7. Serve the Grilled Eggplant Parmesan

Once the Grilled Eggplant Parmesan is finished baking and the cheese is golden and bubbly, remove it from the oven. Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and make it easier to slice.

Serve the dish warm, garnished with extra fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Grilled Eggplant Parmesan pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread, a light salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Eggplant Parmesan

• Choose the Right Eggplant: Look for firm, shiny eggplants with smooth skin. Avoid eggplants with soft spots or wrinkles, as these indicate the fruit may be overripe or starting to spoil.
• Grill in Batches: If you’re grilling a large amount of eggplant, it’s better to grill it in batches rather than overcrowding the grill. This allows for even cooking and prevents the eggplant from steaming rather than getting that nice char.
• Avoid Overcooking the Eggplant: Keep an eye on the eggplant while grilling. Overcooked eggplant can become mushy and lose its texture, so be sure to remove it from the grill when it’s tender but still holding its shape.
• Use Homemade Marinara Sauce: If you have the time, homemade marinara sauce can really elevate the dish. A simple sauce made from tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs will add a rich and fresh flavor to your Grilled Eggplant Parmesan.
• Make Ahead: Grilled Eggplant Parmesan can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as instructed. This is a great option for meal prepping or entertaining.
• For Extra Flavor, Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary can be sprinkled between the layers of eggplant for extra depth of flavor. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil on top of the final layer before baking to enhance the richness.

Variations of Grilled Eggplant Parmesan

• Zucchini Parmesan: If you’re looking for a lighter, low-carb version, try replacing the eggplant with zucchini slices. Grilled zucchini makes a great substitute for eggplant and provides a slightly different texture, but still works perfectly in this dish.
• Vegan Grilled Eggplant Parmesan: For a vegan version, substitute the mozzarella cheese with vegan cheese and the Parmesan with a vegan Parmesan alternative. You can also use cashew cream or tofu to create a creamy texture if you prefer.
• Spicy Grilled Eggplant Parmesan: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce, sprinkle some chili powder on the eggplant before grilling, or add hot sauce to the final layer of cheese.
• Grilled Eggplant Parmesan with Meat: If you’d like to add a protein, layer in some cooked ground beef, chicken, or Italian sausage between the eggplant layers for a meat lover’s version of this dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Grilled Eggplant Parmesan is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored for later. To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze Grilled Eggplant Parmesan. Once assembled, cover the dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes, or until fully heated. If you’ve already baked the dish, it can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Grilled Eggplant Parmesan

Pair this Grilled Eggplant Parmesan with these complementary dishes to create a well-rounded meal:

• Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery side of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh, light salad with arugula, spinach, and balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich and cheesy eggplant.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside a mix of roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes for a flavorful and colorful side dish.
• Pasta: For an even heartier meal, serve the eggplant Parmesan with a side of pasta, like spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne, tossed in extra marinara sauce.
• Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter featuring olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses is a great appetizer before digging into the main dish.

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Conclusion

Grilled Eggplant Parmesan offers a fresh, healthy spin on a classic dish. The combination of smoky grilled eggplant, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese creates a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a lighter take on a traditional comfort food or a new way to enjoy eggplant, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With easy steps and endless variations, Grilled Eggplant Parmesan is a dish that you’ll love to make time and time again!