tonya's superlative eggplant parmesan

How To Make tonya's superlative eggplant parmesan

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  Step 1
  Prepare the sauce first. Heat a medium saute pan over medium-high heat. Add 3 Tbsp olive oil and the onions. Sauté until onions are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté another minute. Add the tomatoes, basil, 2 Tbsp oregano, salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook until slightly reduced, about 20-30 minutes.
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  Step 2
  Meanwhile, cut the eggplant into about 1/3-inch thick slices. Place the seasoned flour on a large plate or waxed paper. Place the eggs and milk in a shallow bowl and whisk well. Place the breadcrumbs on a large plate or waxed paper and mix in the remaining 3 tablespoons oregano. Dredge the eggplant first in the flour, then dip into the egg wash, then dredge in the breadcrumbs, shaking off any excess crumbs.
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  Step 3
  Heat about 1/2-inch olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the eggplant in batches, about 3 minutes per side or until golden brown, adding more oil between batches as needed. Let drain on baking racks or paper towels.
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  Step 4
  Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a 13x9x2 baking dish with olive oil or spray. Spoon a thin layer of sauce onto the bottom. Top with one-third of the eggplant in one layer. Spread about one-third of the sauce over the eggplant, then scatter with one-third of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layers two times (If you don't have quite enough eggplant for the top layer, just space it out evenly. If there's too much, overlap as needed.)
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  Step 5
  Bake until hot and bubbly, about 40 minutes. Let rest 10 minutes before cutting and serving.
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  Step 6
  (NOTE: If desired, the casserole may be assembled a day ahead, covered and refrigerated. Add 20 - 30 minutes to the baking time, checking to be certain it is hot in the center. Leftovers reheat very well in the oven or microwave.)
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