Eggplant Pizzas Recipe (Low-Carb, Gluten-Free)
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Who says pizza can’t be healthy and indulgent at the same time? These low-carb eggplant pizzas are here to change the game! By swapping out the traditional crust for flavorful roasted eggplant slices, this recipe gives you all the cheesy, saucy goodness you crave without the carbs or gluten. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a quick, wholesome meal, this dish will have you coming back for seconds.
These eggplant pizzas are amazing! Finally a pizza recipe that is good for you!
Why You’ll Love Eggplant Pizzas
- Healthier Alternative: These eggplant pizzas are low-carb and gluten-free, making them a guilt-free way to enjoy your favorite comfort food. You’ll love how this recipe satisfies your pizza cravings without any of the extra carbs or gluten!
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, these pizzas are quicker than delivery. With simple steps and minimal prep, you can enjoy a homemade meal in no time.
- Bursting with Flavor: From the garlic-infused olive oil to the savory tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese, every bite is packed with delicious Italian-inspired flavors.
- Customizable Toppings: You can easily personalize these pizzas with your favorite toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or even pepperoni. The options are endless, making this dish fun and versatile.
- Nutrient-Packed: Eggplant is rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making these pizzas not only tasty but also nourishing. It’s the perfect way to sneak some extra veggies into your meal.
Pizza has to be one of the most mouthwatering meals out there. This recipe for eggplant pizzas is savory and decadent while being low-carb and gluten-free.
Are you intrigued? Healthy, filling, and flavorful, this recipe takes a new spin on pizza by using eggplant as a pizza crust. Rich in fiber, the eggplant crust will keep you full while providing important Vitamin C.
Ingredients For Eggplant Pizzas
- Eggplant – The star of the recipe, acting as a low-carb, gluten-free pizza crust substitute.
- Garlic Cloves – Adds a burst of fresh and aromatic flavor to the olive oil mixture.
- Olive Oil – Ensures the eggplant slices roast to golden perfection while adding richness.
- Tomato Sauce – Brings classic pizza flavor with a tangy and savory base.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully, giving these pizzas their cheesy goodness.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Italian Seasoning (Optional) – For an extra kick of herby, aromatic flavor.
For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.
Whether you’re looking for something gluten-free or just outside the usual, this low-carb pizza is a sure winner. It combines some of my favorite flavors like garlic and tomato. The rich flavor of this healthy dish is simply incredible, but doesn’t include the gluten or carbs found in a traditional pizza.
Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Eggplant Pizzas
- Baking Sheet – For roasting the eggplant slices evenly.
- Parchment Paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Knife – For slicing the eggplant into uniform rounds.
- Cutting Board – Provides a stable surface for slicing the eggplant.
- Mixing Cup – Perfect for combining olive oil and minced garlic.
- Brush – To coat the eggplant slices with the garlic olive oil mixture.
- Measuring Spoons – Ensures accurate seasoning and ingredient measurements.
Maybe you are new to eggplants and feeling a little shy about trying them in your kitchen. This is a great recipe to pick out a perfectly purple eggplant to enjoy! If you’re anything like me, the rich eggplant purple calls out from the produce aisle. But where to start? With its unique flavor, eggplant is often passed by on a trip to the grocery store. It is a great low-carb vegetable option that provides a small dose of protein in each serving. With this no-fail recipe, you don’t have to be puzzled by the eggplant. This Low-Carb Eggplant Pizza recipe is cheesy and flavorful, but only takes about 35 minutes to make.
After preheating your oven, slice the eggplant into ½ inch slices and place them on a baking sheet with parchment paper. Coat your eggplant slices in a flavorful mixture of olive oil and minced garlic and bake for twenty minutes. After removing the eggplant from the oven, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This preparation of your eggplant crust is key to a delicious pizza.
Top your eggplant slices with tomato sauce and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese. Return your baking sheet to the oven for another ten minutes or until the cheese is melted. That is all there is to these delicious Low-Carb Eggplant Pizzas.
Ready in less time than it takes to get a pizza delivered (and no tipping required!), these Low-Carb Eggplant Pizzas are filling, full of flavor, and healthy. Bringing together a variety of flavors and textures, this dish is satisfying, wholesome, and unique. This eggplant pizza recipe is low in carbohydrates and gluten-free without being boring or time-consuming. Healthy pizza night has never tasted better!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these eggplant pizzas as a main dish with a Fresh Cauliflower and Mixed Greens Salad on the side for a balanced meal.
- Pair with Healthy Roasted Broccoli or Low-Carb Air Fryer Roasted Zucchini for an extra serving of greens.
- For a more filling meal, accompany the pizzas with a bowl of hearty soup like Simple Chickpea Soup or Creamy Tomato Soup.
- Make them the centerpiece of a fun “build-your-own pizza” night with family or friends.
- Serve as a unique appetizer at a dinner party or potluck to impress your guests.
Tips For Success
- Choose Fresh Eggplant: Look for eggplants that are firm, smooth, and glossy with no soft spots. Smaller eggplants often have fewer seeds and a milder flavor, making them ideal for this recipe.
- Uniform Slices: Slice the eggplant evenly to ensure all pieces cook at the same rate. About 1/2-inch thickness works best for a sturdy yet tender “crust.”
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the garlic, salt, and Italian seasoning. These flavors complement the eggplant and give the pizzas their delicious taste.
- Pre-Roast the Eggplant: Baking the eggplant slices first helps remove excess moisture and prevents the final pizzas from being soggy.
- Customize Toppings: While mozzarella and tomato sauce are classics, feel free to experiment with other toppings like sautéed mushrooms, fresh basil, or crumbled feta.
- Use Parchment Paper: This step makes cleanup easy and keeps the eggplant from sticking to the baking sheet.
- Check for Doneness: When roasting the eggplant, look for edges that are lightly browned and centers that are soft but not mushy. For the final bake, the cheese should be melted and bubbly.
- Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispy edges.
Variations And Substitutions
- Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even a dairy-free alternative to suit your preference. For a tangy twist, try crumbled goat cheese or feta.
- Toppings Galore: Add your favorite toppings such as sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, olives, or cooked sausage. For a more gourmet option, try arugula and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Herb Enhancements: While Italian seasoning is classic, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or fresh oregano for different flavor profiles.
- Spicy Twist: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle some chili oil over the pizzas for a spicy kick. You can also mix a bit of hot sauce into the tomato sauce for extra heat.
- Vegan-Friendly: Make this recipe vegan by using plant-based cheese and ensuring your tomato sauce contains no animal products. The garlic and olive oil mixture will still provide robust flavor.
- Air Fryer Version: Cook the eggplant slices in an air fryer at 390°F for 15 minutes before adding toppings. Then return them to the air fryer for 3 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Low-Sodium Option: Reduce the amount of salt and use a low-sodium tomato sauce. Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to compensate for the flavor.
- Mini Eggplant Pizzas: Use smaller eggplants for bite-sized pizzas, perfect for appetizers or a party platter.
- Grilled Variation: Grill the eggplant slices instead of roasting them for a smoky, charred flavor. Add the toppings after grilling and pop them under a broiler to melt the cheese.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Place leftover eggplant pizzas in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the pizzas are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their texture.
- Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and arrange the eggplant pizzas on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melty.
- Reheating in the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 350°F and reheat the pizzas for 3-5 minutes. This method helps to restore the crispy texture of the eggplant base.
- Microwave Option: Place a pizza on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30-60 seconds. While convenient, this method might make the eggplant slightly softer.
- Freezing: Although fresh is best, you can freeze eggplant pizzas for up to 2 months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these eggplant pizzas in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the roasted eggplant slices ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the toppings and bake for 10 minutes to melt the cheese.
What type of eggplant is best for this recipe?
Globe eggplants work best due to their large size and sturdy texture. Smaller varieties like Japanese or Italian eggplants can be used, but they may require more slices to serve as pizza bases.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the mozzarella cheese with your favorite dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How do I keep the eggplant pizzas from becoming soggy?
Pre-roasting the eggplant slices helps to remove excess moisture, which is key to avoiding sogginess. Also, blot the eggplant slices with a paper towel before roasting if they seem overly moist.
Can I use a different sauce instead of tomato sauce?
Yes, you can get creative with your sauce! Try pesto, white Alfredo sauce, or even barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for keto diets. The eggplant is low in carbs, and the cheese provides healthy fats to fit your macros.
What other toppings work well with eggplant pizzas?
Popular options include sliced mushrooms, olives, cooked bacon, diced onions, or fresh basil. For a Mediterranean flair, try adding artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, or crumbled feta.
Can I cook these on the grill instead of in the oven?
Yes, grilling is a fantastic option! Grill the eggplant slices on medium heat until tender, then add the toppings and briefly grill with the lid closed to melt the cheese.
How can I make this recipe more filling?
Add protein-rich toppings like grilled chicken, cooked sausage, or tofu. Pair the pizzas with a hearty salad or a side of roasted vegetables to round out the meal.
If you like these eggplant pizzas, you will also love these easy healthy recipes:
- Portobello Mushroom Pizza – another low-carb gluten-free pizza using a large portobello cap as a pizza crust!
- Instant Pot Portobello Pizza – own an Instant Pot? Make a portobello pizza in it the easy way!
- Spicy Garlic Roasted Eggplant – these oven-baked spicy garlic eggplant slices are amazing! They are so addictive!
- Eggplant “Caviar” – this homemade eggplant spread is mouthwatering!
- Instant Pot Eggplant – so quick and easy to cook the eggplant this way!
Low-Carb Eggplant Pizzas
Ingredients
- 1 eggplant
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)
- Mixing cup
- Brush
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the eggplant into 1/2 inch slices.
- Put the oil and minced garlic in a cup and mix until combined.
- Put the eggplant slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Brush the eggplant slices with the olive oil and garlic mixture.
- Put the baking sheet with eggplant slices in the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the eggplant from the oven and sprinkle with salt, pepper and Italian seasoning.
- Top the eggplant slices with tomato sauce.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the eggplant slices.
- Put the baking sheet with eggplant slices in the oven and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Nutrition
More Baked Recipes
- Twice-Baked Potatoes in the Air Fryer
- Crispy Oven-Baked Green Tomatoes Recipe
- Gluten-Free Pumpkin Oatmeal Bake Recipe
Can you make this in the air fryer?
Yes! Pre-cook the eggplant rounds in the air fryer at 390F for 15 minutes (or until desired doneness), then top with tomato sauce and cheese and return to air fryer for another 3 minutes or until cheese is melted. Also, check out my other air fryer recipes :)
Any kind of vegetable becomes so delicious when you add cheese.