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Eggplant Parmesan Pizza: A Crispy, Cheesy Italian-Inspired Twist


  • Author: rodrigo Stone
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 1 (12-inch) pizza, 2–4 servings 1x

Description

Eggplant Parmesan Pizza is a fusion dish that combines the beloved flavors of classic Italian Eggplant Parmesan with the irresistible appeal of pizza. Crispy breaded eggplant slices, tangy marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese come together on a golden crust, delivering all the comfort of a traditional casserole in handheld form. Perfect for cozy family dinners, vegetarian-friendly meals, or even entertaining guests, this pizza is hearty, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ball of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 eggs, beaten

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred)

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for brushing)

  • 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish


Instructions

  • Preheat the oven. Set oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet inside to heat up.

  • Prepare the eggplant. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs mixed with 1/4 cup Parmesan.

  • Bake or pan-fry eggplant. For a lighter version, brush slices with olive oil and bake on the hot sheet for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. For extra crispiness, shallow fry in olive oil until golden on both sides. Set aside.

  • Shape the dough. On a floured surface, roll out pizza dough into a 12-inch round. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone. Brush lightly with olive oil.

  • Assemble the pizza. Spread marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella. Layer on the crispy eggplant slices, then top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

  • Bake. Place pizza in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.

  • Garnish. Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh basil and red pepper flakes if desired.

  • Serve. Slice and enjoy with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes