The name, vodka, comes from the Russian phrase zhiznennaia voda, or "water of life". It can be made from everything from potatoes to beets. It's considered to be fairly flavorless which makes it a great liquor for mixed drinks.
Slow Cooker Eggplant Parmesan
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Eggplant, breadcrumbs, and parmesan in the slow cooker along with pasta sauce and mozzarella makes for a vegetarian dish that leaves even carnivores satisfied. Leftover eggplant parm sandwiches?
serves/makes:
ready in:
2-5 hrs
2-5 hrs
8 reviews
1 comment
ingredients
2 small eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
1/2 cup seasoned dried bread crumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 jar (24 ounce size) marinara sauce
12 ounces shredded reduced-fat mozzarella cheese
sliced fresh basil
directions
Grease the inside of the crock pot.
Place a layer of half of the eggplant slices, sprinkle with half of the breadcrumbs, half of the parmesan, half of the marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella. Repeat the layers.
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the eggplant is tender. Turn off the heat and let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with basil just before serving.
crock pot notes
Crock pots/slow cookers all heat differently. There is no standard among manufacturers. Cooking times are suggested guidelines based on our testing. Please adjust cooking times and temps to work with your brand and model of slow cooker.recipe tips
Salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes before layering to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry before using to prevent the dish from being too watery.
Layer the ingredients evenly so every bite has a good mix of flavors and textures.
Consider broiling the eggplant slices for a few minutes on each side before layering to add texture and reduce moisture.
Leftover eggplant parm makes delicious sandwiches, especially when served on toasted Italian bread or a crusty roll.
Use fresh, firm eggplant without soft spots.
To boost the flavor, add sauteed garlic or onions to the marinara sauce.
Try adding layers of spinach or other vegetables for added flavor and texture.
Serve with a sprinkle of extra fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
common recipe questions
Can I use fresh breadcrumbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh breadcrumbs for a different texture, though they may absorb sauce differently than dried breadcrumbs.
Is there a substitute for marinara sauce?
You can use any tomato-based pasta sauce or even a homemade tomato sauce as a substitute for marinara sauce.
Can I add meat to this dish?
While traditional eggplant parmesan is vegetarian, you could add cooked ground beef or sausage between the layers for a non-vegetarian version.
How can I prevent the eggplant from becoming too soggy?
Make sure your eggplant slices aren't too thin, and don't overdo the sauce to help prevent the dish from becoming too soggy.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Use vegan cheese substitutes for both the mozzarella and Parmesan, and make sure your marinara sauce is vegan.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the dish in the crock pot insert, refrigerate, and start cooking it a few hours before you plan to serve.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. For the oven, cover with foil and heat at 350 degrees F until warmed through.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Cooking on high can cause the edges to burn or the eggplant to become too mushy. It's best cooked on low for the time specified.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Try different cheeses like provolone or fontina for different flavors and textures.
What is eggplant parmesan?
Eggplant parmesan is traditionally an oven-baked dish made with layers of breaded and fried or baked eggplant slices, marinara sauce, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese, often served as a main course. This version uses a crock pot instead of the oven.
Can I use frozen eggplant?
You can use frozen eggplant, but it's best to thaw and blot them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before using them in the recipe.
What type of eggplant should I use?
Italian or globe eggplant is commonly used for eggplant parmesan, but Japanese or Chinese eggplants can also work. Choose firm eggplant without blemishes.
What if I don't have marinara sauce?
You can use any tomato sauce, pizza sauce, or even homemade tomato sauce. Just make sure it has a good flavor to enhance the dish.
Do I have to use a slow cooker?
No, if you don't have a slow cooker, you can also bake the layers in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 30-40 minutes.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
While it's traditionally a vegetarian dish, you may add cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage to the marinara sauce.
Can eggplant parmesan be frozen?
You can freeze eggplant parmesan. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw before reheating.
tools needed
Slow Cooker: For cooking the layered ingredients over low heat for 2-3 hours, allowing the eggplant to become tender while melding the flavors of the marinara and cheeses.
Measuring Cups: For measuring the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Knife: For slicing the eggplants into 1/2-inch rounds.
Cutting Board: Provides stable surface for slicing the eggplants.
Grease (such as cooking spray or oil): Used for greasing the inside of the crock pot to prevent the ingredients from sticking.
Spoon or Spatula: For layering the ingredients in the slow cooker and for serving the finished dish.
what goes with it?
Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up any leftover marinara sauce on your plate, garlic bread offers a crunchy, buttery contrast to the soft, cheesy eggplant. Plus, who can resist that aroma?
Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the eggplant Parmesan.
Pasta: Serve with a side of pasta dressed simply in olive oil and garlic. This keeps the meal cohesive and adds some extra carbohydrates for those carb lovers out there.
Antipasto Platter: Create an antipasto platter with olives, artichokes, and marinated veggies. The briny flavors offer a nice contrast to the creamy eggplant Parmesan.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle some on top for an extra kick! The heat can really enhance the depth of flavor in the dish.
Ricotta Cheese: A dollop of ricotta on top adds creaminess and a nice contrast to the eggplant. Its mild flavor won't overpower the dish but will enhance its richness.
Fried Sage Leaves: Their crispiness and earthy flavor can introduce an intriguing twist. Toss the fried sage leaves on top for a gourmet touch.
Eggplant Parmesan Sandwiches: Make a killer sandwich with the leftovers. The bread will soak up the flavors while adding a satisfying crunch, making an awesome lunch or dinner option.
Make Your Own Marinara Sauce: The robust flavors in this restaurant copycat marinara sauce enhance the savory layers of eggplant and cheese, making it a perfect partner. Drizzling some extra sauce on top before serving adds a little touch of moisture and flavor that keeps everything balanced.
beverage pairings
Wine Pairings
Chianti: This Italian red has a nice acidity that plays well with the tomato sauce, while its cherry flavors complement the eggplant. Look for one with a touch of earthiness to really connect with the dish.
Sangiovese: A fruity Sangiovese will shine next to the richness of the cheese and the eggplant. Go for a bottle that's medium-bodied with hints of plum and spice.
Verdicchio: If you prefer white, Verdicchio is a great choice. Its crisp, green apple notes and a hint of almond will brighten the flavors of the eggplant and balance the richness of the mozzarella.
Other Alcohol Pairings
Light Lager: A light lager, with its crisp and refreshing nature, can cleanse your palate after a cheesy bite of goodness. It's straightforward and won't steal the spotlight from your meal.
Red Wine Spritzer: Mix red wine with a splash of club soda and ice for a light and fruity drink. It's refreshing, and the wine still gives you that nice cherry and berry vibe that plays well with the dish.
Aperol Spritz: The bitter-sweetness of Aperol with some bubbly and an orange slice adds a nice zing that contrasts nicely with the creamy eggplant dish.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Sparkling Grape Juice: This fizzy beverage gives you the festive feeling of wine without the alcohol. Its sweetness complements the dish nicely, while the bubbles keep things fun.
Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai can be a cozy companion to your meal. The spices can enhance the flavors of the eggplant.
Herbal Lemonade: Make this a twist by using herbal tea instead of standard lemonade. A mint or basil-infused lemonade can refresh your palate and bring an herbal note to the whole dish.
nutrition data
468 calories, 18 grams fat, 59 grams carbohydrates, 21 grams protein per serving.
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In a cooking rut? Try one of these taste-tested, family-approved recipes using ground beef.
reviews & comments
May 13, 2020
This rocks! What a great, easy way to have tasty eggplant parm! Ok so the texture is not quite the same as traditional, but the flavor is fantastic. For the convenience itâs a no brainer. No going back to the slow, messy version again... This is a winner all around, a great way to get in a meatless meal. And the best part, my teenage son loved it too!
January 9, 2020
So easy compared to other eggplant Parmesan! Not really a traditional texture, but I think itâs good this way too. Iâm All for easier recipes if they taste great!
October 5, 2016
I tried this recipe tonight and it was delicious! It was so easy to make and the family loved it. I will definitely keep this recipe on high rotation!
August 28, 2016
FANTASTIC!! I couldn't have been MORE skeptical as mom NEVER cooked it this way but decided to take a shot -- boy, am I glad that I did! Scrumptious -- yummy, easy and speedy clean-up -- what MORE could I ask? A keeper, for sure!! Thanx!!
September 20, 2014
Hands down the best crock pot ANYTHING I've ever made. Eggplant was delicious. Can't wait to try more recipes from this site!
November 13, 2013
I think that the number of servings will vary by the size of the eggplants since it just says "2" eggplants and not weight or specific size. This tasted just as good as oven baked eggplant parm without all the fuss. I used homemade spaghetti sauce instead of marinara because I had canned it previously. I will definitley make this again because we really enjoyed it. I don't often consider crock pot meals good for dinner guests but this one definitley is!
July 1, 2013
I was skeptical of eggplant in the crock pot but this was really delicious!!
Just wanted to add that we got a lot more than 4 servings out of it so the nutritional value was much better than what is presented. It filled our crock pot to the top - no way that's 4 servings!
June 29, 2012
Made this for the first time yesterday - my husband and I basically inhaled it and even my picky boys ate their fair share. Easy to make and amazing. Best part - there's enough left over for hoagies today!!