Notes
Ingredients (with measurements)
For the Crispy Eggplant Sandwiches
Want a lighter option? Bake them instead at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway. 4. Build the Sandwich Stacks Place half the fried eggplant slices on a baking sheet. Top each one with a round of creamy goat cheese. Add the second eggplant slice to create a “sandwich,” then bake until the cheese melts into perfection. 5. Serve & Enjoy Spread a generous spoonful of tomato tarragon sauce on the plate and top it with your warm eggplant stack. The contrast of crisp eggplant, creamy cheese, and tangy sauce is absolutely irresistible. Tips & Variations Swap the Cheese If goat cheese isn’t your thing, replace it with mozzarella, provolone, or burrata for a milder, milkier flavor. Make It Vegan Use dairy-free cheese, egg replacer, and vegan-friendly breadcrumbs. The tomato sauce is naturally vegan! Serve on Bread Turn this stack into a complete sandwich! Ciabatta, baguette, or sourdough work beautifully. Make It Ahead The tomato sauce can be prepared 2–3 days in advance.
The breaded eggplant slices can also be fried/baked ahead and reheated in the oven. How to Serve This Dish This sandwich pairs perfectly with:
- Eggplants – Peeled and sliced into half-inch rounds. These become beautifully golden and crispy once fried or baked.
- Eggs – Helps the breadcrumbs stick to the eggplant slices.
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Gives the eggplant its iconic crunchy coating.
- Parmesan Cheese – Mixed into the breadcrumb coating for an extra savory kick.
- Goat Cheese – Soft, mild, and creamy the perfect melting cheese for this recipe.
- Vegetable Oil – Used for frying the eggplant until golden brown.
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps soften the onions.
- Onion – Provides a sweet, aromatic base to the sauce.
- Crushed Tomatoes – The foundation that gives the sauce its body.
- Fresh Tarragon – The star herb that adds a sweet anise flavor.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential flavor enhancers.
- Sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Want a lighter option? Bake them instead at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway. 4. Build the Sandwich Stacks Place half the fried eggplant slices on a baking sheet. Top each one with a round of creamy goat cheese. Add the second eggplant slice to create a “sandwich,” then bake until the cheese melts into perfection. 5. Serve & Enjoy Spread a generous spoonful of tomato tarragon sauce on the plate and top it with your warm eggplant stack. The contrast of crisp eggplant, creamy cheese, and tangy sauce is absolutely irresistible. Tips & Variations Swap the Cheese If goat cheese isn’t your thing, replace it with mozzarella, provolone, or burrata for a milder, milkier flavor. Make It Vegan Use dairy-free cheese, egg replacer, and vegan-friendly breadcrumbs. The tomato sauce is naturally vegan! Serve on Bread Turn this stack into a complete sandwich! Ciabatta, baguette, or sourdough work beautifully. Make It Ahead The tomato sauce can be prepared 2–3 days in advance.
The breaded eggplant slices can also be fried/baked ahead and reheated in the oven. How to Serve This Dish This sandwich pairs perfectly with:
- Mixed green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- Light pasta dishes
- Soup (tomato, vegetable, or minestrone)