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