Print

Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Slices Easy Recipe for Melty Mozzarella

crispy air fryer eggplant parmesan - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy air fryer recipe for crispy eggplant parmesan slices topped with melty mozzarella, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium globe eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
  • Salt, for drawing moisture out of the eggplant slices
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60g)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs (150g), preferably panko
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme blend)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil spray or light brush
  • 6 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn into small pieces
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (optional), warmed

Instructions

  1. Slice one medium eggplant into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Lay them out on a paper towel-lined baking sheet and sprinkle both sides generously with salt. Let sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out moisture.
  2. Pat the eggplant slices dry with fresh paper towels until damp but not wet.
  3. Set up dredging stations: place 1/2 cup flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in a second bowl, and combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
  4. Dredge each eggplant slice first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in beaten egg, and finally press into breadcrumb mixture ensuring full coverage. Place coated slices on a clean plate.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 400°F and let heat for about 3 minutes.
  6. Place coated eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray. Lightly spray or brush tops with olive oil. Cook at 400°F for 8 minutes, flipping slices and spraying the other side with olive oil halfway through.
  7. After initial crisp, place slices of fresh mozzarella on top of each eggplant slice. Return to air fryer and cook at 375°F for an additional 3-4 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Remove slices gently with a spatula. Optionally, spoon warm marinara sauce over or under the slices and garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan.

Notes

Salt the eggplant well to draw out moisture and prevent sogginess. Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Lightly spray olive oil on slices before air frying for a golden crust. Flip slices halfway through cooking for even browning. Watch mozzarella carefully to avoid bubbling over. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to maintain crispiness. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness; avoid microwave reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: eggplant parmesan, air fryer recipe, crispy eggplant, mozzarella, quick dinner, vegetarian, easy recipe

Find it online: https://avabake.com/crispy-air-fryer-eggplant-parmesan-slices-easy-recipe-for-melty-mozzarella/