# Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan: An Irresistible Weeknight Dish
Succulent slices of fresh eggplant are coated and air-fried with marinara sauce and generous amounts of gooey mozzarella cheese for the ideal weeknight dish! This meal merges the sweet taste of eggplant with a crunchy, savory coating and melted cheese, forming a delightful trio of tastes.
## Key Characteristics
– **Taste:** Sweet eggplant, a crunchy, savory coating, and generous amounts of melted cheese create a classic trio of tastes!
– **Difficulty Level:** This straightforward recipe is perfect for beginners; just coat, air fry, and stack.
– **Recommended Equipment:** The air fryer allows for healthy and delicious cooking without the complications and mess of deep-frying.
– **Serving Ideas:** Pair with spaghetti or a Caesar salad for a scrumptious meal!
## Simple Eggplant Parmesan Components
– **Eggplant:** No need to peel! Simply rinse, dry, and slice evenly for optimal cooking. Select medium, firm eggplant free of bruises for even rounds.
– **Coating:** A basic blend of flour, breadcrumbs, spices, and parmesan cheese. For extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs and boost flavor with garlic or onion powder.
– **Sauce:** Opt for your favorite marinara brand or prepare your own for additional leftovers.
– **Alternatives:** Swap chicken breasts in for a traditional chicken parmesan. If an air fryer isn’t available, bake the breaded eggplant rounds in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until golden and crisp.
## Steps to Prepare Eggplant Parmesan in the Air Fryer
1. **Coat:** Immerse eggplant slices in flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixture.
2. **Spray:** Lightly coat each slice with cooking spray.
3. **Fry:** Air fry in a single layer until golden brown, turning halfway through.
4. **Top:** Add tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and air fry until the cheese is melted.
Sprinkle with parsley, basil, or a splash of balsamic vinegar and serve while hot.
## Leftover Goodness
Keep leftover air fryer eggplant parmesan in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer preservation, freeze portions without sauce and cheese for up to 1 month. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the air fryer with additional marinara and fresh mozzarella cheese.
Savor leftovers tucked into pita bread or a wrap for a filling work lunch, or serve atop mashed potatoes, homemade egg noodles, or low-carb zucchini noodles.
## Nutritional Information (per serving)
– **Calories:** 281
– **Carbohydrates:** 31g
– **Protein:** 16g
– **Fat:** 11g
– **Saturated Fat:** 5g
– **Cholesterol:** 117mg
– **Sodium:** 815mg
– **Potassium:** 568mg
– **Fiber:** 6g
– **Sugar:** 8g
– **Vitamin A:** 685 IU
– **Vitamin C:** 7mg
– **Calcium:** 242mg
– **Iron:** 3mg
## Final Thoughts
Air fryer eggplant parmesan presents a lighter, simpler way to indulge in this classic comfort dish. With its crispy crunch and robust flavors, it’s certain to become a staple in your home. Delight in this exquisite dish any night throughout the week!