🍆 Burrata Eggplant Parmigiana with Caramelized Onions & Parmesan Cream
📝 Description
This elevated twist on classic eggplant parmigiana layers crispy, golden eggplant with rich tomato sauce, sweet caramelized onions, and a luscious Parmesan cream. Finished with creamy burrata that melts into the dish, it’s indulgent, comforting, and beautifully balanced with sweet, savory, and creamy flavors—perfect for a standout dinner.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Eggplant:
- 2 large eggplants (sliced into rounds)
- Salt (for sweating)
- 1 cup flour
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Olive oil (for frying or roasting)
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt & pepper to taste
For Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large onions (thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- Pinch of salt
For Parmesan Cream:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- Salt & pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 2 balls burrata cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra Parmesan for garnish
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Eggplant
- Sprinkle slices with salt and let sit for 20 minutes to remove bitterness.
- Pat dry.
- Coat each slice in flour → egg → breadcrumbs.
- Fry until golden OR bake at 200°C (400°F) until crispy.
2. Make Tomato Sauce
- Heat olive oil, sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 15–20 minutes until thick.
3. Caramelize the Onions
- Cook onions in olive oil over low heat.
- Add sugar and salt.
- Stir occasionally for 20–25 minutes until deep golden and sweet.
4. Prepare Parmesan Cream
- Heat cream gently, add garlic and Parmesan.
- Stir until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Season to taste.
5. Assemble the Dish
- In a baking dish: layer sauce → eggplant → caramelized onions → Parmesan cream.
- Repeat layers.
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes.
6. Finish
- Tear burrata over the top.
- Garnish with basil and extra Parmesan.
- Serve warm.
❓ Q&A
Q1: Can I make it less heavy?
Yes—bake the eggplant instead of frying and use light cream.
Q2: What does burrata add?
It adds a rich, creamy texture that melts into the hot dish, making it extra luxurious.
Q3: Can I make it ahead?
Yes, assemble without burrata, refrigerate, and bake when needed. Add burrata before serving.
Q4: Can I skip caramelized onions?
You can, but they add a deep sweet flavor that balances the acidity of tomatoes.
Q5: What can I serve with it?
Crusty bread, pasta, or a fresh green salad.