Description
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—Air Fryer Eggplant is a delicious, healthy side dish or snack that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal oil, this recipe gives you perfectly golden eggplant slices without deep frying. Whether served plain, dipped in marinara, or layered in a sandwich, they’re a guaranteed hit.
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Ingredients
For the Eggplant:
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1 medium eggplant (about 1 lb), sliced into ¼-inch rounds
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1 tsp salt (for sweating the eggplant)
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs
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1 tbsp milk
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1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp black pepper
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Olive oil spray (for air frying)
Optional for Serving:
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Marinara sauce (for dipping)
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Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
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Lemon wedges
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Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Sweat the Eggplant
Slice eggplant into ¼-inch thick rounds.
Sprinkle both sides with salt and place slices on a paper towel-lined tray.
Let sit for 15–20 minutes to draw out moisture and bitterness.
Pat dry with clean paper towels.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
In one bowl, add flour.
In the second bowl, whisk eggs with milk.
In the third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper.
Step 3: Bread the Eggplant
Working one slice at a time:
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Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
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Dip into egg mixture.
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Coat with seasoned breadcrumbs.
Place coated slices on a clean plate or tray.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
This ensures the eggplant starts crisping right away.
Step 5: Air Fry the Eggplant
Spray both sides of the breaded eggplant slices with olive oil spray.
Place in a single layer in the air fryer basket—do not overcrowd.
Air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce like marinara.
Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Sweat the Eggplant – Helps remove bitterness and improves texture.
Use Panko – Gives the best crunch in the air fryer.
Spray, Don’t Soak – Lightly coat with oil spray for crispiness without sogginess.
Don’t Overcrowd – Cook in batches to allow hot air to circulate.
Make It Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs as needed.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: Mediterranean / American