🍆 Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Bites – Crispy, Cheesy & Delicious!
These air fryer eggplant parmesan bites are coated in crispy breadcrumbs, then topped with marinara and cheese. A lighter, bite-sized take on a classic.
Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Bites 🍆🧀
4
servings10
minutes8
minutes220
kcalLove Eggplant Parmesan but want an easier, bite-sized version? These Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Bites are crispy, cheesy, and full of Italian flavor!
✅ Crunchy outside, soft inside
✅ Air-fried for a lighter version of the classic
✅ Ready in just 15 minutes!
✅ Perfect for dipping in marinara sauce!
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Ingredients
1 small eggplant (cut into 1-inch cubes or slices)
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons milk
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Cooking spray or oil spray
Marinara sauce (for serving)
Directions
- Prepare the Eggplant: Cut the eggplant into 1-inch cubes or round slices. Lightly salt them and let sit for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Pat dry.
- Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, whisk eggs and milk. In a third bowl, mix panko and Parmesan.
- Bread the Eggplant: Dredge each piece in flour, dip into egg mixture, then coat in panko. Press the breadcrumbs firmly for maximum crispiness.
- Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the eggplant with oil and place in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the bites and air fry for 1 more minute until melted.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with marinara sauce for dipping!
Notes
- ✅ For extra crispiness, double coat in egg and panko.
✅ Skip the flour for a slightly lighter version.
✅ Serve with fresh basil or red pepper flakes for extra flavor. - CLICK HERE to see which Air Fryers I recommend.