What you’ll need:
- 2 large eggplants
- 2 cups of tomato sauce
- 2 cups of mozzarella cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Prepare the eggplant
Start by slicing the eggplants into 1/4 inch thick rounds. Sprinkle each slice with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to remove any bitterness. Rinse the slices under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Sauté the eggplant
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the eggplant slices in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they become golden brown. Remove the slices from the skillet and set them aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Step 3: Layer the ingredients
In the same skillet, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Place a single layer of eggplant slices over the sauce, followed by another layer of tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves. Repeat these layers until you run out of ingredients, ensuring the final layer is cheese.
Step 4: Bake and serve
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
This easy skillet method guarantees a perfectly cooked and cheesy Parmigiana every time. Serve it as a main course with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad, and you’ll have a complete Italian feast that will wow your guests. Buon appetito!