Slow-Cooker Eggplant Parmesan offers a rich, comforting twist on the classic Italian dish, eliminating the need for frying while maintaining all the delicious flavors. Tender eggplant slices are layered with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, then slow-cooked to perfection. This hands-off recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping, delivering a hearty vegetarian meal with minimal effort. The slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully, resulting in a dish that's both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into ½-inch coins
  
  

• 2 eggs
  
  

• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
  
  

• 1 tsp garlic powder
  
  

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  
  

• Kosher salt, to taste
  
  

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  
  

• 2 cups marinara sauce
  
  

• 12 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
  
  

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  
  

• Fresh basil, for garnish
  
  

Directions:

1. Place eggplant slices on a paper towel-lined baking sheet and sprinkle each piece with salt. Let sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
   
   

2. Spread about a third of the marinara sauce in the bottom of the slow cooker.
   
   

3. In a medium bowl, whisk eggs. In another bowl, combine panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
   
   

4. Dip each eggplant slice into the egg mixture, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture. Layer the breaded eggplant slices in the slow cooker over the sauce.
   
   

5. Top with a layer of mozzarella slices and a portion of the remaining marinara sauce. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with mozzarella on top.
   
   

6. Cover and cook on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the eggplant is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   
   

7. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 15g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 35g
  
  

• Fat: 20g
  
  

• Fiber: 7g
  
  

• Sugar: 12g