Crispy Eggplant Veggie Fries

Name: Crispy Eggplant Veggie Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large eggplants, sliced into fry shapes; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 eggs, beaten; Cooking spray

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Crispy Eggplant Veggie Fries as a great alternative to traditional fries. The eggplant provides a meaty texture that holds up well to the crispy coating. My family enjoys these as a fun snack or side dish, and we always get requests for seconds. The blend of spices adds a delightful flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more! Just remember to slice the eggplant evenly to ensure the fries cook uniformly for that perfect crunch.

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:31:13.135Z

I've experimented with various veggies for frying, but eggplant has become my favorite. The moment I tried making fries, I was wowed by how crispy they turned out, especially with the right spices. Not only do they satisfy that fry craving, but they also provide a unique, savory flavor profile that surprises everyone!

One critical tip I've learned is to salt the eggplant after slicing it. This removes excess moisture and bitterness, allowing for a crispier finish. It’s a simple step that elevates the fries to a whole new level. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with a tender interior
A healthier alternative to regular fries without compromising on taste
Customizable with your favorite spices for a unique flavor experience

      

Perfecting the Fry Shape

When slicing eggplants for fries, aim for uniformity in thickness, about 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking; thicker pieces may remain soggy while thinner ones can burn. A serrated knife can help achieve clean cuts without squashing the eggplant. If you're unsure about your knife skills, use a mandoline for consistent results.

After salting the eggplant, you’ll notice moisture pooling on the paper towel. This process is crucial as it removes excess water and bitterness. If you prefer not to use salt, you can soak them in a mixture of water and vinegar for approximately 10 minutes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time further if the slices are still watery.

Getting the Breading Right

The breadcrumb mixture serves as the essential coating that delivers the desired crunch. Consider using panko breadcrumbs for an even crispier texture. They create a larger surface area compared to regular breadcrumbs, trapping more heat and moisture, resulting in a perfect fry. Feel free to experiment by adding herbs or spices like Italian seasoning or cayenne for an extra kick.

For variations, you could substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. This will still impart a cheesy flavor while keeping it vegan. Just remember that nutritional yeast lacks the fat content of cheese, so you may want to add a little extra oil to help the coating stick.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

These Crispy Eggplant Veggie Fries pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. A homemade garlic aioli or a spicy marinara sauce can elevate the dish, complementing the natural flavor of the eggplant. For something different, try serving them alongside a yogurt dip mixed with fresh herbs for a refreshing contrast.

If you have leftovers, allow the fries to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat and maintain their crispiness, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy.

Ingredients

For the Fries

2 large eggplants, sliced into fry shapes
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 eggs, beaten
Cooking spray

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare Eggplant

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the eggplants into fry-sized pieces and place them on a clean paper towel. Sprinkle generously with salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out moisture.

Create Breading Station

In one bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. This will be your dipping station.

Coat the Eggplant

Once the moisture has drawn out, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water and pat them dry. Dip each slice first into the egg and then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Fries

Once all the eggplant slices are coated, spray the top with cooking spray for an added crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Once done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your crispy eggplant fries with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, try adding a tablespoon of cornmeal to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also experiment with different spices based on your preference.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your eggplant fries turn out soggy, it’s likely due to excess moisture. Salting prior to coating is key to drawing out water. Make sure to give them plenty of time on the paper towel, or use a clean kitchen cloth to speed up the drying process if you're short on time.

Underwhelming crispiness can sometimes occur if the fries are too crowded on the baking sheet. Each piece should have space around it to ensure hot air circulates effectively. If necessary, use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding for optimal results.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe easy to scale up or down depending on your needs. If cooking for a crowd, you can easily double the ingredient quantities while keeping the same cooking time. However, be sure to check for doneness as larger batches may take a few extra minutes to reach the desired golden color and crispiness.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, halve the ingredients, but make sure to keep an eye on the baking time to avoid overcooking. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthier snack without wasting any ingredients.

Variations to Try

For a Mediterranean twist, try seasoning the breadcrumb mixture with za'atar and adding a bit of feta cheese to the coating. The aromatic spices of za'atar will enhance the eggplant’s natural flavors brilliantly, making for each serving unforgettable.

You can also experiment with different vegetables. Zucchini, sweet potatoes, and even carrots can be sliced and coated in the same manner for variety. Each vegetable will bring its unique texture and flavor, but be mindful that cooking times may vary, so check for doneness accordingly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables instead of eggplant?

Absolutely! Zucchini or sweet potatoes work great as alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can these be made ahead of time?

You can prepare and coat the eggplant ahead of time, just bake them when you're ready to eat.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these fries?

Garlic aioli, marinara, or a spicy dipping sauce brings out the flavors perfectly.