This air fryer eggplant recipe is a quick and easy way to get crispy, flavorful eggplant without the hassle of deep frying.
Using small to medium eggplants for a less bitter taste, this recipe swaps breadcrumbs for finely grated Parmesan to create the perfect crunchy coating. A touch of olive oil, Italian seasoning, and simple spices enhance the natural flavors, making this a delicious and effortless side dish or snack.
Cuisine: Italian
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love Making It
- Quick & Easy – Minimal prep and cooks in just 15 minutes.
- Crispy Without Frying – The air fryer delivers a perfect crunchy texture with less oil.
- Healthy & Low-Carb – Uses Parmesan instead of breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly option.
- Customizable Flavors – Adjust the seasoning and spices to your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 medium eggplant – Choose a small to medium eggplant for the best texture. Larger ones tend to be bitter and have more seeds. If using a large eggplant, salt and let it sit for 20 minutes to reduce bitterness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps the coating stick and crisps up the eggplant. Avocado oil works as a substitute.
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese – Creates a crispy, flavorful crust. Use finely grated Parmesan, not shredded, for best results. You can replace half the Parmesan with breadcrumbs if preferred.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of dried basil, thyme, oregano, and rosemary. Ensure it’s unsalted to prevent over-seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances flavor with a mild garlic kick.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smoky flavor (optional).
- ½ teaspoon sea salt – Adjust to taste, especially if your Parmesan is salty.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild spice and balances the seasoning.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
Wash and dry the eggplant, then slice it into ½-inch rounds. If using a large eggplant, sprinkle the slices with salt and let them rest for 20 minutes to remove bitterness. Rinse and pat dry.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes while preparing the coating.
Step 3: Coat the Eggplant
In a bowl, toss the eggplant slices with olive oil to ensure even coverage. In a separate bowl, mix the Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Press each eggplant slice into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides.
Step 4: Air Fry the Eggplant
Place the coated eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the crispy eggplant slices to a plate and let them cool slightly. Serve immediately as a snack, side dish, or with marinara sauce for dipping.
FAQs
Can I make this without Parmesan?
Yes! You can use almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb option, or replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
