Eggplant Parmesan has always been one of my favorite comfort foods, but when I discovered how to make it in the air fryer, it completely changed the game. Gone are the days of standing over a hot pan of oil and dealing with messy frying. The air fryer gives you that crispy, golden perfection with just a fraction of the oil—and way less hassle. Plus, it’s so satisfying to see the transformation of simple ingredients into something so flavorful and indulgent.
This Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan has all the classic layers of crispy eggplant, tangy marinara, melty cheese, and Italian herbs—but with a modern twist that makes it easier and lighter. Whether you’re making it as a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests with a vegetarian showstopper, this recipe is a must-try. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to make this dish a success.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Eggplant: The star of the dish! Choose a firm, medium-sized eggplant with smooth, shiny skin. Eggplants tend to absorb oil like a sponge, so air frying helps control that while giving you a deliciously crispy texture.
Breadcrumbs: Opt for seasoned Italian-style breadcrumbs for added flavor. These breadcrumbs provide the crunch factor that makes this dish irresistible. If you prefer, you can mix in a bit of panko for extra crispiness.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a savory, nutty flavor that ties the whole dish together. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and texture.
Eggs: Eggs act as the glue that helps the breadcrumbs stick to the eggplant slices. Be sure to beat them well to ensure even coating.
Marinara Sauce: A rich, tangy marinara sauce is essential for that classic Eggplant Parmesan flavor. You can use your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own from scratch.
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, creating that gooey, stretchy layer of cheesy goodness. If you want to keep it simple, shredded mozzarella works too.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme adds a burst of flavor to every bite. Sprinkle some into your breadcrumbs for an extra punch of Italian flair.
Olive Oil Spray: A light spray of olive oil ensures your eggplant slices crisp up perfectly in the air fryer without becoming greasy.
Ingredients List
- 1 medium eggplant, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or fresh mozzarella slices)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Olive oil spray
How to Make Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
Start by slicing the eggplant into ½-inch rounds. Sprinkle a little salt on each side and let the slices sit for about 15 minutes. This helps draw out any bitterness. Afterward, rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a clean towel.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
In one shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Dip each eggplant slice into the egg, then coat it evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.
Step 3: Air Fry the Eggplant
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange the breaded eggplant slices in a single layer (you may need to cook them in batches). Spray the tops of the slices lightly with olive oil. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
In an oven-safe dish or directly in your air fryer basket (if it fits), layer the crispy eggplant slices with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella on top.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Return the dish to the air fryer and cook at 375°F (190°C) for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the dish from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute or two. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Salt the Eggplant: Don’t skip the salting step! It removes bitterness and ensures a better texture.
- Work in Batches: Overcrowding the air fryer basket can result in uneven cooking. Cook the eggplant slices in batches for the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and high-quality marinara sauce elevate this dish to restaurant-level quality.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones, and you’re good to go.
- Reheat Like a Pro: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore the crispiness.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Replace the eggs with a plant-based milk-flour mixture and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
What can I serve with Eggplant Parmesan?
This dish pairs beautifully with spaghetti, a side salad, or even some crusty garlic bread.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for the best results.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Freeze the breaded, air-fried eggplant slices before assembling with sauce and cheese. When ready to cook, layer the frozen slices with sauce and cheese and air fry until heated through.
Do I need to peel the eggplant?
It’s up to you! The skin is edible, but if you prefer a smoother texture, feel free to peel it.