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Crispy Vegan Eggplant Parm Sandwich! Vegan eggplant parm: master this crispy, cheesy sandwich in your air fryer. Quick to make, it's a fantastic plant-based mea

Crispy Vegan Eggplant Parm Sandwich!

Vegan eggplant parm: master this crispy, cheesy sandwich in your air fryer. Quick to make, it's a fantastic plant-based meal for any day.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 3
Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
  • 1/2 to 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons granulated onion
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons vegan parmesan
  • pinch salt (plus more as needed)
  • Dash of black pepper (plus more as needed)
  • 1 medium-sized eggplant (cut into 1/2 inch slices, top & bottom removed)
  • Spritz of oil spray

Instructions
 

  • Prepare breading station: On plate 1, place 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise. On plate 2, combine 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1 tsp granulated onion, 1 tsp vegan parmesan, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper. Plate 3 is for breaded eggplant.
  • Coat eggplant slices: Use fingers to apply a thin layer of mayo to each eggplant slice. Coat all slices before moving to the next step. Add more mayo as needed (up to 1/4 cup).
  • Bread eggplant slices: Dip each mayo-coated slice into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring full coverage. Place breaded slices on plate 3. Add remaining panko and seasonings if needed.
  • Air fry eggplant: Arrange eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd. Spritz tops with oil spray. Air fry at 400°F for 12 minutes, flipping halfway and spritzing with more oil.
  • Add toppings and finish: At the 10-minute mark, add a spoonful of marinara sauce and a pinch of vegan mozzarella to each slice. Continue cooking until browned and melted. Remove.
  • Toast buns: Heat a dry skillet to medium. Place burger buns face down to toast the cut sides until nicely browned. Remove from heat.
  • Assemble sandwiches: Top bottom burger buns with a few slices of vegan eggplant parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and thin slices of yellow onion. Top with remaining buns.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy vegan eggplant parm sandwich!

Notes

- For optimal crispiness, ensure your eggplant slices are uniform in thickness (about 1/2 inch) to promote even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation, which is key for that golden-brown finish. I once tried to squeeze too many in, and they steamed instead of crisped, so trust me on this.
- Store leftover cooked eggplant slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for best results, avoiding the microwave to maintain crispness.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.