Mini eggplant pepperoni parmesan stacks are crispy, cheesy, saucy, and packed with bold pizza flavor in every irresistible bite.
Author:Caroline Jones
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:27 minutes
Total Time:47 minutes
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Low Carb
Ingredients
Scale
2 medium eggplants, sliced into thick rounds
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1½ cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
24 mini pepperoni slices
1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon oregano
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Extra parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the eggplant: Slice eggplants into thick rounds and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 15–20 minutes to remove excess moisture, then pat dry thoroughly.
Roast the eggplant: Brush both sides with olive oil and season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Arrange on a baking tray and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes until lightly tender.
Build the pizza stacks: Top each roasted eggplant slice with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and mini pepperoni slices. Sprinkle basil and oregano over the top.
Bake until melty: Return to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
Broil for extra crispiness: Broil for 1–2 minutes to crisp the pepperoni edges and create a crunchy parmesan topping.
Garnish & serve: Finish with fresh parsley or basil, extra parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and cheesy.
Notes
Serve with garlic aioli, ranch dip, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or toasted garlic bread for the ultimate comfort-food dinner.
Use turkey pepperoni for a lighter version.
Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour for lower carbs.
Use part-skim mozzarella to reduce fat.
Add fresh spinach under the cheese for extra veggies.