Speedy Eggplant Parmesan Bake

Name: Speedy Eggplant Parmesan Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants, sliced; 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick Dinner Recipes

I love how easy and delicious this Speedy Eggplant Parmesan Bake is! In just a short time, I can create a comforting dish that is bursting with flavor. The combination of tender eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese makes it impossible to resist. Whether I'm having friends over or just enjoying a cozy night in, this dish never fails to impress. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s a weeknight dinner miracle I keep coming back to! Give it a try and see how it turns a simple meal into something special.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-02T16:30:27.514Z

When I first tried making eggplant parmesan, I was overwhelmed by the layering and frying involved. However, after years of refining my approach, I discovered that baking the dish cuts down on time and mess significantly. I sauté the eggplant lightly to enhance its flavor without the added calories of frying, and it turns out beautifully tender in the oven.

I also learned that using store-bought marinara saves time without sacrificing flavor. The key is to choose a high-quality brand; it elevates this dish from simple to sensational. A sprinkle of fresh basil on top before serving completes this comforting bake perfectly!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup
Layers of cheesy goodness and rich marinara flavor
A delightful vegetarian dish that satisfies everyone

Tips for Perfect Eggplant

Eggplant can be bitter, which is often an issue with larger varieties. To mitigate this, I recommend salting your eggplant slices before cooking. Sprinkle a generous amount of salt on both sides and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This draws out excess moisture and any bitterness. Afterward, rinse and pat them dry with paper towels to keep your dish from becoming too watery.

When sautéing, aim for a golden-brown color on the eggplant slices. This step not only enhances flavor but also helps reduce the eggplant’s spongy texture. If you find that the eggplant seems to absorb too much oil, try cooking them in batches. That way, they get a nice sear without becoming greasy.

Sauce and Cheese Choices

Choosing the right marinara sauce can elevate your Speedy Eggplant Parmesan Bake significantly. Homemade sauces offer robust flavors, but you can also use high-quality store-bought ones for convenience. Look for sauces that are rich in flavor and not overly sweet. A good one should contain natural ingredients with no artificial additives.

Mozzarella cheese is classic, but feel free to experiment with a blend of cheeses. Combining provolone or fontina can add depth and richness. If you're looking for a healthier option, use part-skim cheeses, but keep in mind they may melt differently. Additionally, incorporating some fresh mozzarella on top adds a delightful stretchiness that enhances the overall dining experience.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Speedy Eggplant Parmesan Bake.

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants, sliced
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to stack your ingredients neatly for easy assembly!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious dish.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare Eggplant

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced eggplant, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 5 minutes until just softened.

Layer the Ingredients

In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom. Add half of the sautéed eggplant, followed by a third of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining marinara sauce and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy!

Enjoy this meal hot and fresh from the oven!

Pro Tips

For an extra crispy top, you can broil the casserole for the last few minutes of baking, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal. I like to toss together arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a fresh counterbalance to the creamy, cheesy bake. Don't forget some crusty bread for dipping in any leftover marinara sauce—it’s a delightful way to enjoy every last bite!

For a more filling main course, serve the eggplant with a scoop of quinoa or cooked grains on the side. The nutty flavor and texture complement the cheesy eggplant perfectly, making for a hearty dinner that’s still light and satisfying.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing the baked dish before the second baking step. Freeze it unbaked, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to serve it, bake straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-55 minutes, adding a few more minutes if needed.

When reheating, I recommend doing it in the oven rather than the microwave to keep the crust crispy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil to prevent excessive browning. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through, then remove the foil for the last few minutes to refresh that melty cheese texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables instead of eggplant?

Yes! Zucchini or bell peppers work well as alternatives.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and bake it just before serving.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with eggplant parmesan.