When it comes to savory, satisfying dishes that are perfect for any meal or occasion, few ingredients can rival the humble eggplant. With its meaty texture and subtle flavor, eggplant is a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in countless ways – from rich and creamy sauces to light and refreshing salads. But one of the most exciting and addictive ways to enjoy eggplant is when it’s crispy. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying side dish or a main event, these 18 delicious crispy eggplant recipes are sure to please even the pickiest palates.
From classic Italian-inspired dishes like Crispy Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Basil to innovative fusion flavors like Spicy Crispy Eggplant Stir-Fry and Sweet and Sour Crispy Eggplant Stir-Fry, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a fan of rich and creamy sauces or light and refreshing flavors, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll take a closer look at each of these mouthwatering recipes, with step-by-step instructions and stunning photographs to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Crispy Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Basil
Elevate your eggplant game with this easy-to-make, crispy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of melted mozzarella cheese with the brightness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Dip the floured eggplant slices into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Assemble the Parmesan by placing a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a serving dish, followed by a layer of baked eggplant slices, then a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese and basil leaves. Repeat the layers one more time, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese and basil.
7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Crispy Eggplant Stir-Fry
This vibrant stir-fry combines crispy eggplant, savory spices, and a hint of heat for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the marinade, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
6. Remove eggplant from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Cook in the skillet with onion and garlic until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Crispy Eggplant Slices
A simple yet flavorful recipe that transforms eggplant slices into crispy, savory delights. Perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for sandwiches and wraps.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic until well combined.
4. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Place eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
6. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Eggplant Fries with Sriracha Mayo
Transform ordinary eggplant into a crunchy, flavorful snack with this easy recipe. Perfect for veggie enthusiasts and spicy food lovers alike!
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Sriracha mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: garlic powder, dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice eggplants into fry shapes.
3. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge eggplant slices in the mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured eggplant in panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
5. Place coated eggplant on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden.
7. Serve hot with Sriracha mayonnaise for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Air-Fryer Crispy Eggplant Bites
Transform eggplant into crispy, savory bites with minimal effort! These Air-Fryer Crispy Eggplant Bites are perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, dried oregano, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each eggplant round into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated eggplant slices in a single layer on the Air Fryer basket.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through. Eggplant should be tender and crispy.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you like.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Honey Glazed Crispy Eggplant Chips
Transform eggplant into crispy, sweet, and irresistible chips with this easy recipe. Perfect as a snack or side dish, these honey glazed eggplant chips are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the eggplant into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, mix together honey and olive oil.
4. Add the sliced eggplant to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the honey glaze.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer.
6. Sprinkle salt and any desired seasonings over the eggplant.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Eggplant and Mozzarella Stacks
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines crispy eggplant slices, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. Perfect for a quick dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each eggplant slice in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Place the coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the eggplant slices and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and crispy.
8. Assemble the stacks by placing a mozzarella slice on top of an eggplant slice, repeating until all ingredients are used.
9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Panko-Crusted Crispy Eggplant Cutlets
Elevate your eggplant game with this crispy and flavorful recipe, perfect as a main course or appetizer. With a crunchy Panko crust and tender eggplant interior, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick cutlets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Dip each eggplant cutlet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the cutlets and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Eggplant Tacos with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco game with this innovative vegetarian recipe that combines the richness of eggplant with the creaminess of avocado. This flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a trendy party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced red onion, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip eggplant slices into the flour mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry eggplant slices until crispy and golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with fried eggplant, Avocado Crema, and desired toppings.
Avocado Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Combine ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Crispy Eggplant Salad
Elevate your salad game with this sweet and savory combination of crispy eggplant, tangy balsamic glaze, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
3. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dip each eggplant round into the mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and 1 tablespoon of water.
7. Toss cooked eggplant slices with the balsamic glaze, parsley, and feta cheese (if using).
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Eggplant Pizza Bites
Transform your pizza game with these crispy eggplant bites filled with savory goodness. A perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush both sides of eggplant slices with olive oil.
3. Bake eggplant for 15-20 minutes or until tender, flipping halfway through.
4. In a bowl, combine tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.
5. Remove eggplant from the oven and let cool slightly.
6. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of tomato sauce mixture onto each eggplant round, leaving a small border around edges.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of sauce.
8. Fold eggplant slices in half to form triangles or pinwheels.
9. Place bites on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Crispy Eggplant Wraps
Discover the flavorful fusion of crispy eggplant, tangy feta, and fresh herbs in this easy-to-make wrap recipe. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 whole wheat tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
3. In a shallow dish, mix olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the eggplant slices and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Remove eggplant from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
5. Assemble wraps by spreading a layer of feta cheese, parsley, oregano, and lemon juice on each tortilla. Top with 2-3 eggplant slices and serve.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Crispy Eggplant Sliders with Tzatziki
Crispy Eggplant Sliders with Tzatziki Recipe
Sweet and Sour Crispy Eggplant Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish with a twist! This sweet and sour stir-fry combines crispy eggplant, tangy sauce, and savory aromatics for a flavor-packed meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cornstarch with a pinch of salt. Add eggplant slices and toss until coated.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook eggplant slices until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Add sweet and sour sauce to the skillet and stir-fry for 1 minute.
6. Combine cooked eggplant with the sauce mixture. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Crispy Eggplant and Hummus Flatbread
A flavorful twist on traditional flatbread, this recipe combines crispy eggplant with creamy hummus for a delicious snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup hummus
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook eggplant slices for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
5. Spread hummus on a flatbread or pita bread. Top with roasted eggplant slices and a squeeze of lemon juice.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Eggplant Tempura with Dipping Sauce
Experience the delightful combination of crispy eggplant and savory dipping sauce in this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping sauce ingredients (see below)
Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
2. Pour soda water into the mixture and stir until smooth batter forms.
3. Dip eggplant slices into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry battered eggplant slices in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy.
6. Drain tempura on paper towels and serve hot with dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Crispy Eggplant and Goat Cheese Crostini
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet impressive appetizer that combines the sweetness of eggplant with the tanginess of goat cheese. Perfect for a quick gathering or as an addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Top each crostini with crumbled goat cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Crispy Eggplant Chips with Yogurt Dip
Transform eggplant into a crispy, flavorful snack with this easy recipe. The herby flavor pairs perfectly with a refreshing yogurt dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice eggplants into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, parsley, basil, and salt.
4. Add the eggplant slices to the bowl and toss to coat.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, mix together yogurt, lemon juice, and honey in a separate bowl.
8. Serve the crispy eggplant chips with the yogurt dip and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of crunchy delights! This article brings you 18 mouthwatering crispy eggplant recipes that will take your taste buds on a thrilling ride. From classic Parmesan dishes to spicy stir-fries, and from savory slaws to sweet treats, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make Crispy Eggplant Fries with Sriracha Mayo, Air-Fryer Crispy Eggplant Bites, Honey Glazed Crispy Eggplant Chips, and many more!
