Eggplant Parmesan from The Cheesecake Factory features layers of breaded, crispy eggplant slices topped with rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, creating a comforting Italian classic with a golden, bubbly finish.
Equipments
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Vegetable peeler
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Shallow dishes (for breading)
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack (optional)
- Skillet or frying pan
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Ladle or large spoon
- Grater (for cheese)
- Oven mitts
- Serving spatula
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants
- Salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Fresh basil leaves
When preparing Eggplant Parmesan, make sure to choose firm, fresh eggplants for the best texture and flavor. Salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture and bitterness before breading. Use Italian-style breadcrumbs combined with grated Parmesan for a crispy, flavorful coating that mimics the restaurant quality. Fry the breaded eggplant in vegetable oil until golden brown to achieve a perfect crispness that locks in moisture. Your homemade Eggplant Parmesan from The Cheesecake Factory copycat menu will deliver the same rich, comforting taste with layers of melted mozzarella and marinara sauce.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and slice eggplants into 1/2-inch rounds.
- Sprinkle eggplant slices with salt and let sit 30 minutes.
- Pat eggplant slices dry with paper towels.
- Set up breading station: one dish with flour, one with whisked eggs and milk, one with breadcrumbs mixed with 1/2 cup Parmesan.
- Dredge eggplant slices in flour, then egg wash, then breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat oil in skillet over medium heat.
- Fry breaded eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides.
- Drain fried eggplant on paper towels.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara in bottom of baking dish.
- Layer fried eggplant in dish.
- Spoon marinara sauce over eggplant.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and remaining Parmesan over each layer.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve with spatula.
Substitution
Eggplant Parmesan from The Cheesecake Factory copycat menu offers a deliciously crispy and cheesy Italian dish with layers of breaded eggplant, marinara sauce, and melted cheese. If fresh eggplants are unavailable, zucchini or portobello mushrooms can be used as a substitute while maintaining a similar texture and flavor. When frying, ensure the oil temperature is steady at 350degF to achieve a crisp crust without absorbing excess oil. You can prepare the breadcrumbs ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for convenience. Using a wire rack instead of paper towels to drain the fried eggplant helps keep it crispier for your final bake.
Tips
Salt the eggplant slices generously and allow them to sit for at least 30 minutes to draw out bitterness and excess moisture, ensuring a better texture and flavor. Patting the slices dry before breading prevents sogginess and helps the coating adhere. Fry the eggplant in batches over medium heat, maintaining oil temperature to achieve a crisp, golden crust without absorbing too much oil. When assembling, evenly distribute marinara and cheeses between layers to promote thorough cooking and a deliciously melty finish, maximizing the classic taste of your Eggplant Parmesan.
Nutritions
Eggplant Parmesan from The Cheesecake Factory provides a balanced mix of macronutrients, primarily protein from mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and carbohydrates from breadcrumbs and marinara sauce. Each serving contains antioxidants and fiber from the eggplant, which supports digestive health and antioxidant defense. However, frying eggplant in oil increases the calorie and fat content, so frying time and oil absorption impact the nutritional profile. Your intake will benefit from the calcium in the cheeses and vitamins A and C from marinara sauce, contributing to bone health and immune function.
Storage
To store your Eggplant Parmesan, place any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture absorption. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, ensuring you reheat portions thoroughly in the oven at 350degF (175degC) to regain the crispy texture. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe dish, wrapping tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
For a lighter version of your Eggplant Parmesan, try baking the eggplant slices instead of frying to reduce oil absorption while maintaining a tender texture. Using panko breadcrumbs mixed with Italian herbs can enhance the crispiness and add extra flavor to your breading. Incorporate fresh mozzarella balls sliced thinly for creamier cheese layers that melt beautifully under heat. You might also experiment with adding a layer of spinach or sauteed mushrooms between eggplant layers to increase nutrient diversity and add earthiness to your dish.
Allergies
Eggplant Parmesan contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy from Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, and gluten found in the all-purpose flour and Italian-style breadcrumbs. If you have an allergy to any of these ingredients, it's crucial to avoid this dish or seek allergy-friendly alternatives. You can ask the restaurant about ingredient substitutions or check packaging labels carefully before enjoying this flavorful meal.
Why this recipe?
The Eggplant Parmesan at Cheesecake Factory is acclaimed for its rich layers of crispy, breaded eggplant, melted mozzarella, and savory marinara sauce, creating a delicious harmony of textures and flavors. Its generous portion size and fresh ingredients contribute to its popularity among restaurant-goers seeking a satisfying vegetarian option. You can replicate this beloved dish at home to enjoy the same vibrant taste while customizing seasoning and cheese to your preference. Making a copycat version is worth the effort for a homemade, cost-effective alternative that captures the iconic essence of the Cheesecake Factory's menu.