Crispy, cheesy, and low-carb, these irresistible, family-friendly, party-perfect snacks deliver pizza flavor in every bite—Zucchini Pizza Bites!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bite-sized treats combine all the classic flavors of pizza with the lightness of vegetables, making them a guilt-free indulgence:
- Low-carb and gluten-free—great for keto and paleo lifestyles
- Quick and easy—ready in under 25 minutes
- Perfect party appetizer or healthy snack option
- Customizable toppings for different dietary preferences
- Kid-approved and fun to make
Ingredients
- 2 large zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup marinara or pizza sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup mini pepperoni slices (optional)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake the zucchini slices for 5 minutes to soften slightly.
- Remove from the oven and top each slice with a small spoonful of marinara sauce, a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, and a few mini pepperoni slices.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with Italian seasoning or dried oregano. Serve warm.
Servings And Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per serving
Variations
- Vegetarian: Skip the pepperoni or replace with sliced olives or mushrooms.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based mozzarella alternatives.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices before baking.
- Different Cheese: Try Parmesan, provolone, or feta for a flavor twist.
- Grilled Option: Cook zucchini slices on the grill instead of baking for a smoky flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or in an air fryer for 2–3 minutes to regain crispness.
- Not Freezer-Friendly: The texture of zucchini can become too soft when frozen and reheated.
FAQs
Can I Make These Ahead Of Time?
You can pre-bake the zucchini and add toppings just before serving to keep them fresh and crispy.
What’s The Best Zucchini Size To Use?
Medium to large zucchini work best to give a good surface area for toppings.
Are These Keto-Friendly?
Yes, they are naturally low in carbs and high in fat when topped with cheese and pepperoni.
Can I Use a Different Sauce?
Yes, pesto or alfredo sauce make great alternatives to marinara.
What Can I Use Instead Of Pepperoni?
Try diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetarian option.
How Do I Prevent Soggy Zucchini?
Pre-baking the zucchini helps remove excess moisture. You can also salt the slices and let them sit for a few minutes before baking.
Do I Need To Peel The Zucchini?
No, the skin adds texture and holds the rounds together better.
Can Kids Help Make These?
Yes! Kids can top the zucchini slices with sauce and cheese—fun and interactive.
Can I Add Protein?
Absolutely—try shredded chicken, turkey, or a plant-based meat crumble.
What’s The Best Way To Serve These?
Serve them hot as an appetizer, snack, or light lunch with a side salad.
Conclusion
Zucchini Pizza Bites are the ultimate bite-sized solution for satisfying pizza cravings without the carbs. Simple, fast, and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for snack platters, healthy meal prep, or getting your family to enjoy more vegetables in the most delicious way possible.
You Might Also Like
If you’re looking to expand your healthy snack or veggie-based recipe collection, here are some flavorful options to explore:
- Try the warm and comforting Zucchini Banana Oatmeal for a nourishing breakfast twist using similar ingredients.
- Craving more pizza vibes? These Golden Tortilla Pizza Pockets offer a crispy and cheesy handheld treat.
- These Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Muffin Cups are a gooey, garlicky snack perfect for sharing.
- For a low-carb dinner idea, the Low-Carb Italian Turkey Zucchini Skillet is a hearty, skillet-cooked favorite.
- Serve your bites with a side of Crispy Garlic Mushroom Bites for a satisfying, plant-based crunch.
Zucchini Pizza Bites
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy, cheesy, and low-carb, these irresistible, family-friendly, party-perfect snacks deliver pizza flavor in every bite—Zucchini Pizza Bites!
Ingredients
- 2 large zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup marinara or pizza sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup mini pepperoni slices (optional)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake the zucchini slices for 5 minutes to soften slightly.
- Remove from the oven and top each slice with a small spoonful of marinara sauce, a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, and a few mini pepperoni slices.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with Italian seasoning or dried oregano. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the pepperoni or use a plant-based alternative.
- You can use store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.
- Adjust toppings according to personal preferences, such as adding chopped olives or bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg