Dinner

Mediterranean Eggplant Burger Recipe

Name: Mediterranean Eggplant Burger Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 52 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 small eggplants; ½ tsp. salt; ½ cup flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs; ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese; ¼ cup cooking oil (such as olive oil or vegetable oil); ½ cup pesto; 2 medium tomatoes, sliced thin; 1 lb. fresh mozzarella, sliced thin; 4 burger buns, split

ByJake Silas February 11, 2026February 11, 2026

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This Mediterranean Eggplant Burger offers a delicious twist on the classic burger by featuring crispy, flavorful eggplant slices layered with fresh mozzarella, tomato, and fragrant pesto. It’s a satisfying vegetarian option perfect for lunch or dinner.

The image shows a single burger on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The burger has four visible layers: a soft brown top bun, a greenish-brown veggie patty with a rough texture, a slice of red tomato, and a creamy white sauce spread on the bottom bun. The bottom bun is slightly thicker and has a textured crumb. The background is softly blurred with hints of other food items, focusing attention on the burger. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 small eggplants
½ tsp. salt
½ cup flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
¼ cup cooking oil
½ cup pesto
2 medium tomatoes, sliced thin
1 lb. fresh mozzarella, sliced thin
4 burger buns, split

Instructions

Step 1: Starting at the thickest end of one eggplant, trim off the end and slice four ¼-inch rounds. Repeat with the second eggplant. Save the remaining unsliced eggplant for another use.
Step 2: Place a wire rack on a sheet pan. Arrange the eggplant slices on the rack and sprinkle salt over both sides. Let them stand for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
Step 3: Set up three shallow pans or bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Dip each eggplant slice first in flour, shaking off excess, then in beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb and parmesan mixture. Place the breaded slices back on the wire rack.
Step 5: Heat cooking oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Fry half the eggplant slices for 3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and tender. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and repeat with remaining slices.
Step 6: To assemble, spread 1 tablespoon of pesto on the bottom half of each burger bun. Layer one eggplant slice, two tomato slices, a second eggplant slice, mozzarella slices, and another tablespoon of pesto. Top with the bun and serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, try double-dipping the eggplant slices in the egg and breadcrumb mixture before frying.
Swap fresh mozzarella for vegan cheese to make this recipe dairy-free.
Serve with a side of tzatziki or hummus for an added Mediterranean flair.

Storage

Store leftover fried eggplant slices separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble burgers just before serving for best texture. Reheat eggplant slices gently in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness.

How to Serve

A white plate on a white marbled surface holds a burger with three visible layers. The bottom layer is a thick, dark brown patty with a slightly rough texture. Above it is a smooth slice of red tomato, topped with a thick white sauce or cheese layer. The top bun is light brown with a soft, smooth surface. In the background, there is a small white bowl filled with a green sauce or dip, slightly out of focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I grill the eggplant slices instead of frying?

Yes, grilling the eggplant slices is a great alternative for a lighter burger. Brush slices with oil and cook on a medium-high grill for about 4-5 minutes per side until tender and grill-marked.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

You can replace the eggs with a flax or chia seed egg substitute and use vegan breadcrumbs and cheese alternatives. Also, ensure the pesto is made without cheese or make your own vegan pesto at home.