Eggplant Parmesan Pizza
Eggplant parmesan is a classic Italian dish that has long been a favorite among home cooks and restaurant-goers alike. But what happens when you combine the delicious flavors of eggplant parmesan with the beloved comfort of pizza? The result is a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Introducing the eggplant parmesan pizza – a dish that brings together the best of both worlds, delivering a mouth-watering, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Imagine layers of crispy, breaded eggplant, melted mozzarella cheese, and a tangy tomato sauce, all baked to perfection on a golden, crispy crust. It’s a flavor explosion that will have your guests raving about your culinary skills.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
This eggplant parmesan pizza recipe is the perfect combination of comfort and sophistication. The contrast of the tender, flavorful eggplant and the crisp, chewy crust creates a textural delight that will keep you coming back for more. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, with most of the ingredients being pantry or freezer staples.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a main course for a family dinner, or slice it up and serve it as an appetizer at your next gathering. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) reheat beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping or quick lunches throughout the week.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Eggplant Parmesan Pizza ❓
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 pre-baked pizza crust (or your favorite dough)
The beauty of this eggplant parmesan pizza is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of crispy eggplant, melted cheese, and tangy marinara sauce creates the Italian-inspired flavor profile that has made pizza recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Eggplant Parmesan Pizza Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with the flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumbs. Dredge the eggplant slices in the flour, then dip them in the egg, and finally coat them in the breadcrumbs.
• Step 3: Arrange the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until the eggplant is golden brown and crispy.
• Step 4: Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the pre-baked pizza crust, leaving a 1-inch border. Arrange the baked eggplant slices on top of the sauce, then sprinkle with the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
• Step 5: Bake the pizza for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 35 minutes
• Total time: 65 minutes
Compared to traditional eggplant parmesan, which can take up to 90 minutes to prepare, this eggplant parmesan pizza saves you 25% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 8 servings):
• Protein: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 760mg
These eggplant parmesan pizzas provide approximately 25% of your daily protein requirements and 15% of your daily fiber needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour or use a cauliflower-based pizza crust to reduce the carbohydrates.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Replace the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses with your favorite dairy-free alternatives, such as cashew-based or coconut-based cheese.
• Added protein: Top the pizza with grilled chicken or turkey meatballs for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or sliced mushrooms to the pizza for additional nutrient-rich veggies.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the eggplant parmesan pizza.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair the pizza with a crisp, light-bodied white wine or a bold, full-bodied red wine for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
• Complement the eggplant parmesan pizza with a warm, crusty garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded, satisfying dinner.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Arranging the breaded eggplant slices too close together on the baking sheet can cause them to steam rather than crisp up. Make sure to leave enough space between the slices for even browning.
• Skipping the pre-baked crust: Using a raw pizza dough can lead to an undercooked, soggy crust. Opt for a pre-baked crust or par-bake your own dough before assembling the pizza.
• Overloading the toppings: Piling on too many toppings can weigh down the crust and make it difficult to cook through. Keep the toppings in moderation to ensure a crisp, sturdy base.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These eggplant parmesan pizzas retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Assemble the pizza, but do not bake. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, preheat the oven and cook the frozen pizza for an additional 5-10 minutes.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked pizza to cool completely, then slice and wrap individual portions in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a resealable freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, place the slices on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the eggplant parmesan pizza ahead of time?
Absolutely! The eggplant slices can be breaded and baked up to 3 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the pizza. The assembled, unbaked pizza can also be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and cook the frozen pizza for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses with other types of cheese. Try using a blend of provolone, fontina, or even a sprinkling of crumbled feta for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the melting properties and quantities may vary, so you may need to adjust the amounts accordingly.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
To make this recipe gluten-free, you can use a pre-made gluten-free pizza crust or a cauliflower-based crust. Additionally, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the eggplant breading. With these simple substitutions, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of eggplant parmesan pizza while accommodating a gluten-free lifestyle.
What if my eggplant slices are not crispy?
If your eggplant slices are not achieving the desired crispy texture, there are a few things you can try. Make sure to salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Additionally, ensure that the slices are not overcrowded on the baking sheet, as this can cause them to steam rather than crisp up. Finally, try increasing the oven temperature by 25°F (15°C) and baking for a few extra minutes to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
Can I add additional toppings to the pizza?
Absolutely! The beauty of this eggplant parmesan pizza is its versatility. Feel free to get creative and add your favorite pizza toppings, such as sliced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or even crumbled Italian sausage. Just be mindful of not overloading the pizza, as too many toppings can affect the baking and result in a soggy crust.
Conclusion
These eggplant parmesan pizzas represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a family-friendly dinner or an impressive appetizer for your next gathering, they’re sure to impress with their crispy eggplant, melted cheese, and tangy tomato sauce. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these eggplant parmesan pizzas demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the assembly. So why not give this delicious fusion dish a try and experience the perfect marriage of two beloved Italian classics?
Print
Eggplant Parmesan Pizza
- Total Time: 65 minutes
Ingredients
• 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 pre-baked pizza crust (or your favorite dough)
Instructions
• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the eggplant into 1/2-inch thick rounds and set aside.
• Step 2: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with the flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumbs. Dredge the eggplant slices in the flour, then dip them in the egg, and finally coat them in the breadcrumbs.
• Step 3: Arrange the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until the eggplant is golden brown and crispy.
• Step 4: Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the pre-baked pizza crust, leaving a 1-inch border. Arrange the baked eggplant slices on top of the sauce, then sprinkle with the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
• Step 5: Bake the pizza for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: Americans
Keywords: Eggplant Parmesan Pizza
