Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Pizzas—low-carb, gluten-free, cheesy bites that make a quick, easy snack or light meal ready in just 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-carb and gluten-free
- Quick and easy (ready in 30 minutes)
- Customizable with your favorite pizza toppings
- Perfect for snacks, light meals, or appetizers
- Kid-friendly and great for picky eaters
Ingredients
- 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional toppings: grated Parmesan, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, fresh basil
Directions
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Lay eggplant slices on a double layer of paper towels. Sprinkle both sides with salt and let sit for 5 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Pat slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Arrange eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Flip the slices and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until lightly browned.
- Remove from the air fryer. Top each slice with a spoonful of pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Return topped slices to the air fryer and cook for 4–5 more minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with your favorite toppings like Parmesan, oregano, or fresh basil. Serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 150 kcal per serving
Variations
- Vegan: Use plant-based cheese alternatives
- Meaty: Add mini pepperoni or cooked sausage crumbles
- Spicy: Use spicy marinara and top with jalapeño slices
- Cheese-lovers: Add a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan
- Fresh twist: Top with arugula and a drizzle of balsamic glaze after air frying
Storage/Reheating
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
FAQs
Can I make these in the oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes! Bake at 425°F for 8–10 minutes per side before topping and baking again until the cheese melts.
Do I need to peel the eggplant?
No, the skin softens during cooking, but you can peel it if you prefer.
Can I freeze eggplant pizzas?
It’s best to enjoy them fresh—eggplant tends to get soggy when thawed.
Is there a way to make them crispier?
Let salted slices sit longer (10–15 minutes) to release more moisture, and don’t overload with sauce.
What other sauces can I use?
Try pesto, Alfredo, or a spicy arrabbiata for variety.
How do I prevent sogginess?
Pat eggplant slices dry thoroughly and avoid adding too much sauce.
Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely—try feta, goat cheese, provolone, or even ricotta dollops.
What size eggplant works best?
A medium eggplant gives the best size for bite-sized, sturdy pizza rounds.
Can I make this ahead?
You can air fry the eggplant slices in advance and store them, then reheat and top just before serving.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! It’s fun, cheesy, and perfect for little hands.
Conclusion
Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Pizzas are a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors of traditional pizza in a healthier, veggie-packed form. Whether you’re cutting carbs, looking for a gluten-free option, or simply trying something new, these easy air fryer pizzas deliver satisfying crunch and flavor in every bite.
Print
Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Pizzas
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Pizzas—low-carb, gluten-free, cheesy bites that make a quick, easy snack or light meal ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
-
1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
-
1/2 cup pizza sauce
-
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
-
Optional toppings: grated Parmesan, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, fresh basil
Instructions
-
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
-
Lay eggplant slices on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and let sit 5 minutes.
-
Pat slices dry to remove excess moisture.
-
Air fry in a single layer for 5 minutes.
-
Flip slices, cook 2–3 minutes more until lightly browned.
-
Top each slice with pizza sauce and mozzarella.
-
Air fry again for 4–5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
-
Garnish with optional toppings and serve hot.
Notes
-
For extra crispiness, lightly brush eggplant with olive oil before air frying.
-
Use marinara or pesto for a fun flavor twist.
-
Great as a party appetizer or quick lunch option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air-Fried
- Cuisine: American