Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Pizza Recipe for Guilt-Free Indulgence

Crispy, golden eggplant slices create a delightful air fryer eggplant pizza base that transforms your typical pizza night.

Melted cheese and vibrant toppings turn this dish into a mouthwatering masterpiece.

Every bite promises a perfect blend of textures and flavors.

The air fryer works its magic, giving the eggplant a satisfying crunch without excess oil.

Fresh herbs and zesty marinara sauce add a burst of Mediterranean charm to this innovative recipe.

Forget traditional crusts and embrace this lighter, vegetable-packed alternative that’s both nutritious and delectable.

You’ll want to savor every slice of this game-changing pizza creation.

Why Air Fryer Eggplant Pizza Is a Must-Try

• This recipe transforms simple eggplant into a mouthwatering pizza alternative that's packed with colorful vegetables and cheesy goodness.
• Easily swap ingredients to match your taste preferences or use whatever vegetables you have in your refrigerator, making it a flexible meal option.
• Packed with nutritious vegetables and using an air fryer reduces oil, creating a lighter version of traditional pizza that doesn't compromise on flavor.
• Requires minimal cooking skills and basic ingredients, perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a simple yet delicious meal that looks and tastes gourmet.

What You’ll Need to Make Eggplant Pizza in the Air Fryer

• Eggplant: A versatile vegetable that serves as the base for this delicious pizza alternative.
• Tomato Paste: A concentrated tomato sauce that provides a rich and tangy base for the eggplant pizza.
• Cheddar Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Creamy and melty cheeses that create a delicious topping for the eggplant.

• Onions, Bell Peppers, Plum Tomatoes, Sweetcorn: Fresh vegetables that add color, texture, and extra flavor to the eggplant pizza.

• Olive Oil: Used to coat the eggplant and enhance its roasting process.
• Oregano, Fresh Basil: Aromatic herbs that bring a classic Italian flavor to the dish.

Air Fryer Eggplant Pizza: Best Tools to Use

• Chef's knife: Sharp blade for precise eggplant cutting.
• Cutting board: Stable surface for slicing vegetables.
• Small bowl: For mixing cheese and vegetable toppings.
• Air fryer: Essential for roasting eggplant and baking pizza slices.
• Measuring spoons: For accurate oregano seasoning.
• Spatula: Helps transfer and arrange eggplant slices.
• Cheese grater: For shredding mozzarella and cheddar cheese.

Cooking Air Fryer Eggplant Pizza Step-by-Step

Step 1: Slice Eggplant

Remove the ends of the eggplant and cut it vertically into even strips about the width of your thumb.

Aim for uniform slices that will cook evenly and create a perfect pizza base.

Step 2: Prepare Eggplant Base

Brush each eggplant slice generously with olive oil.

• Olive oil
• Cooking spray
• Pastry brush for even coating

Roast the slices in a pan or air fryer until they turn a gorgeous golden brown.

If using a pan, cook for a few minutes on each side.

In an air fryer, cook at 190°C for 5-6 minutes.

Step 3: Create Flavor-Packed Topping

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Dried oregano
• Finely chopped onions
• Diced bell peppers
• Chopped plum tomatoes
• Sweet corn kernels

Mix these ingredients until well distributed.

Step 4: Build Your Mini Pizzas

Arrange the roasted eggplant slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket.

Spread a thin layer of tomato paste on each slice.

Sprinkle the cheese and vegetable mixture generously over the tomato paste.

Add an extra pinch of oregano for extra flavor.

Step 5: Cook and Serve

Air fry the eggplant pizzas at 160°C for 6-7 minutes until the cheese melts and the edges become crispy.

Once done, garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Serve hot and enjoy your healthy, delicious pizza alternative immediately.

Tips for Crispy and Flavorful Eggplant Pizza

• Cut eggplant uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture across all slices.
• Pat eggplant slices with paper towels before roasting to remove excess water and prevent sogginess.
• Distribute cheese and vegetables evenly to create a harmonious flavor profile in each bite.
• Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance the overall taste of the eggplant pizza.
• Try different cheese combinations like parmesan or goat cheese for unique flavor variations.

Eggplant Pizza: Unique Flavor Combos to Try

• Gluten-Free Veggie Delight: Replace tomato paste with gluten-free marinara sauce and use dairy-free cheese for those with gluten or lactose sensitivities.
• Mediterranean-Style Eggplant Bites: Swap cheddar and mozzarella with crumbled feta cheese, add kalamata olives, and sprinkle with za'atar seasoning for a Greek-inspired version.
• Vegan Protein Power: Substitute cheese with nutritional yeast, add plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu crumbles, and include spinach for extra nutrients.
• Spicy Southwest Spin: Replace bell peppers with jalapeños, use pepper jack cheese, add black beans, and top with cilantro for a zesty, southwestern-style eggplant pizza.

Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Eggplant Pizza

• Pizza Party Platter: Create a colorful spread with different sliced eggplant pizza variations to share with friends and family.
• Healthy Side Companion: Pair these eggplant pizzas with a crisp green salad or light cucumber yogurt dip for a balanced meal.
• Wine and Dine Combo: Serve alongside a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with fresh lemon to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
• Veggie Lover's Delight: Top with extra fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness and nutritional boost right before serving.

Eggplant Pizza Storage and Reheating Advice

• Store leftover eggplant pizzas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain texture.
• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Frozen eggplant pizzas can last up to 1 month without losing quality.
• Warm refrigerated slices at 160C for 3-4 minutes until heated through. Avoid overcooking to prevent drying out or burning the toppings.
• Reheat cold slices on a microwave-safe plate for 30-45 seconds. Add a splash of water to keep the eggplant moist and prevent rubbery texture.

FAQs

• Is air frying healthier than traditional frying?

Air frying uses significantly less oil, reducing calorie intake while still achieving a crispy texture. It’s a great method for preparing vegetables like eggplant with minimal added fat.

• Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe suggests cheddar and mozzarella, you can experiment with feta, goat cheese, or parmesan. Just ensure the cheese melts well and complements the vegetable flavors.

• What are some good substitutes for eggplant if I don't like it?

Zucchini or portobello mushroom slices work wonderfully as alternatives. They have similar textures and can hold toppings just as effectively in this pizza-style dish.

Air Fryer Eggplant Pizza Recipe

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4.6 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Crispy air fryer eggplant pizza delivers Mediterranean flavors with minimal effort. Cheese-topped vegetable rounds create a light, satisfying meal perfect for health-conscious diners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Vegetables:

• 1 eggplant

Cheese Toppings:

• 4 tablespoons (56 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons (28 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese

Flavor and Additional Toppings:

• 12 tablespoons (180 milliliters) extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon chopped red onion
• 3 tablespoons (45 grams) chopped bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
• 1 tablespoon chopped plum tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon sweetcorn
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 grams) oregano

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Instructions

1. Trim the eggplant’s ends and slice vertically into uniform 1 cm thick strips, ensuring even cooking and consistent texture.
2. Brush eggplant slices generously with olive oil, then roast in an air fryer at 190C for 5-6 minutes until edges turn golden and surface becomes slightly crispy.
3. Create a vibrant topping mixture by combining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses with finely chopped onions, bell peppers, plum tomatoes, sweetcorn, and a sprinkle of oregano in a mixing bowl.
4. Arrange roasted eggplant slices in a single layer within the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap to maintain crispness.
5. Spread a thin layer of tomato paste across each eggplant slice, providing a rich, tangy base for the upcoming toppings.
6. Distribute the prepared cheese and vegetable mixture evenly over the tomato-coated eggplant, ensuring balanced coverage and flavor distribution.
7. Return the loaded eggplant slices to the air fryer and cook at 160C for 6-7 minutes until cheese melts and toppings become slightly caramelized.
8. Remove from air fryer, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

• Select firm, glossy eggplants without blemishes for the best texture and flavor absorption.
• Pat eggplant slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and ensure crispy edges during roasting.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like feta or goat cheese for varied taste profiles and dietary preferences.
• Use gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or nutritional yeast as toppings for individuals with specific dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 10mg