Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Eggplant pizza is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of pizza without the guilt. The eggplant slices provide a perfect base for all your favorite pizza toppings, and the fact that it’s gluten-free and low-carb makes it an ideal option for those with dietary restrictions. The best part is that it’s quick and easy to make, and it can be customized with various toppings to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants
Olive oil (for brushing)
1 cup pizza sauce
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, etc.)
Dried oregano (for sprinkling)
Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Salt and pepper (to taste)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Slice the eggplants into ½-inch thick rounds. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
Brush both sides of each eggplant slice with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Bake the eggplant slices for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re tender and golden.
Once the eggplant is baked, remove it from the oven and top each slice with a spoonful of pizza sauce.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce, followed by any other toppings you desire.
Return the eggplant pizzas to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with dried oregano, and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 (2 slices per person)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Vegan version: Use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether, and add extra toppings like olives, tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce on top for an extra kick.
Meat lovers: Top your eggplant pizza with pepperoni, sausage, or bacon for a protein-packed meal.
Vegetarian version: Pile on your favorite veggies like zucchini, onions, mushrooms, or spinach for a fresh, flavorful twist.
Herb-infused crust: Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil infused with garlic and fresh herbs for added depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover eggplant pizza slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the eggplant pizza slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the eggplant is heated through. You can also reheat them in a microwave for 1-2 minutes, though the texture may not be as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I make eggplant pizza ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the eggplant slices, brush them with olive oil, and bake them in advance. When you’re ready to serve, top them with sauce and cheese and bake again for a few minutes.

2. How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming soggy?

Make sure to bake the eggplant slices first to remove excess moisture. You can also salt the slices before baking to draw out extra water.

3. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, provolone, or a dairy-free alternative if you’re vegan.

4. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or drizzle some hot sauce on top for a fiery kick.

5. Can I use other vegetables as a crust alternative?

Yes! You can try zucchini, portobello mushrooms, or cauliflower as alternatives to eggplant for a low-carb, gluten-free crust.

6. How thick should I slice the eggplant?

Slice the eggplant into ½-inch thick rounds for the best texture. Thicker slices may take longer to cook, while thinner slices may become too soft.

7. Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses eggplant instead of traditional pizza dough.

8. Can I freeze eggplant pizza?

Yes, you can freeze the baked eggplant slices after assembling the pizza. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven.

9. How many calories are in a serving of eggplant pizza?

The calorie count will depend on the toppings and cheese used, but a basic eggplant pizza slice can range from 150-250 calories.

10. Can I use store-bought pizza sauce?

Yes, store-bought pizza sauce works perfectly for this recipe. You can also use marinara sauce or make your own homemade sauce.

Conclusion

Eggplant pizza is a fun and healthy twist on traditional pizza, offering a low-carb, gluten-free option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. With its customizable toppings and easy preparation, it’s a great meal for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying pizza experience without the guilt. Whether you stick to the classic toppings or get creative with your choices, eggplant pizza is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!