crispy, cheesy mini pizzas are a delicious twist on a classic favorite, made even easier with the air fryer. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty snack that everyone will love!
Prep Time20 min
Cook Time15 min
Total Time35 min
Difficulty
Medium
Cooking Techniques
Make sure to slice the eggplant evenly for consistent cooking.
Lightly spray the eggplant slices with oil before air frying to get a golden, crispy texture.
Use a thermometer to check that the cheese is melted and bubbly without burning the crust.
Ingredients
0/11
Why This Recipe Is So Easy To Love
This dish combines the crispy, cheesy goodness of traditional eggplant Parmesan with the convenience and speed of the air fryer. It’s a healthier take that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Step 1
Lay out the eggplant slices on a cutting board and sprinkle both sides lightly with salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out some moisture, then pat them dry with paper towels. While that’s resting, preheat your oven to 250°F to keep the cooked slices warm later on.
Step 2
In a bowl, whisk together the egg and water. On a plate, mix the bread crumbs with the Parmesan cheese. Dip each eggplant slice first into the egg mixture, then coat it evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.
Step 3
Heat your air fryer to 400°F and spray the basket with some nonstick spray. Arrange as many eggplant rounds as you can fit without crowding, then spray the tops lightly. Cook them for about 10 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. Transfer the cooked slices to a rack set over a foil-lined baking sheet and pop them in the warm oven while you finish the rest.
Step 4
Once all the eggplant is cooked, spoon some pizza sauce onto each slice, add a few olive slices, and sprinkle with mozzarella. Move your oven rack so it’s about 6 inches from the broiler and turn the broiler on high. Broil the pizzas for around 4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Finish with fresh basil and enjoy!
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people cooked this recipe
ByRyan Parker
Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.
Serving Recommendations
Serve with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables to keep the meal balanced. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or some fresh basil leaves on top can add a nice touch of flavor and color.
Food Storage Guide
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to keep the crust crispy instead of using the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor.
Do I need to salt the eggplant slices before cooking?
Salting helps draw out moisture and reduces bitterness, improving texture and taste, so it’s recommended.
Can I bake the eggplant slices instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, bake them at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
How do I keep the eggplant slices warm while finishing the pizzas?
Place cooked slices on a rack over a foil-lined baking sheet in a 250°F oven.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh for garnish?
Fresh basil is best for flavor and presentation, but dried basil can be sprinkled on before broiling if needed.
What can I use if I don’t have Italian bread crumbs?
Plain or panko bread crumbs mixed with Italian seasoning or dried herbs work well as substitutes.
How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming soggy?
Salting to remove moisture, using an air fryer or oven to crisp slices, and not overcrowding during cooking help keep them crispy.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can bread the eggplant slices in advance and refrigerate for a few hours, but cook them fresh for best texture.
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