Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy, golden-brown eggplant slice layered with creamy mozzarella, vibrant marinara sauce, and fresh basil – a culinary masterpiece that will transform your dinner table into an Italian restaurant experience. These Crispy Eggplant Caprese Stacks are not just a recipe; they're a flavor explosion that will have your guests begging for seconds, proving that vegetarian dishes can be just as exciting and indulgent as any meat-based meal!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium eggplant, sliced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the eggplant by washing and cutting it into 1/4-inch thick round slices. Pat the slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispiness.
- Season the eggplant slices generously with salt and let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out bitter moisture. After 15 minutes, blot the slices dry with clean paper towels.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly brush with olive oil.
- Prepare a breading station: Place breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Season breadcrumbs with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
- Coat each eggplant slice completely in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure even coverage. Arrange breaded slices on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the breaded eggplant slices with olive oil to help them crisp up and turn golden brown during baking.
- Bake the eggplant slices for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy on both sides.
- While eggplant is baking, warm the marinara sauce in a small saucepan and slice the fresh mozzarella into thin rounds.
- Remove eggplant from oven and begin assembling stacks: Start with a crispy eggplant slice, top with a slice of mozzarella, a spoonful of marinara sauce, and a fresh basil leaf.
- Repeat layering to create 4 individual stacks, finishing with a basil leaf on top. Drizzle with additional olive oil and serve immediately.
- Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and serve warm as an appetizer or side dish. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy, and flavorful Eggplant Caprese Stacks!
Tips
- Salt and drain your eggplant slices to remove excess moisture – this is the secret to achieving that coveted crispy texture.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially the mozzarella and basil, to elevate the dish's flavor profile.
- Don't skip brushing olive oil on the breaded eggplant – it helps create a golden, crisp exterior.
- Serve immediately after assembling to maintain the perfect temperature and crispiness.
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs to your breadcrumbs.
- If you want a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with almond meal or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- A quick broil for 1-2 minutes at the end can add an extra layer of golden crispiness to your stacks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
