Ingredients
Method
Preheat the Oven
- Position the rack in the center of the oven and preheat it to 500°F.
Prepare the Eggplant
- Place eggplant in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush the eggplant with 1 tablespoon of oil, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bake until tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Cool the Eggplant
- Remove the eggplant from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
Roll Out the Dough
- While the eggplant cools, roll the dough into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface.
- Transfer to a piece of parchment paper set on a pizza peel, cutting board, or flat cookie sheet.
Shape the Pizza Crust
- Create a lip around the outside edge of the pizza by pressing the dough outward with one hand while pushing inward with the other.
Add the Sauce and Toppings
- Spread marinara or pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Next, sprinkle the pizza with mozzarella, reserved eggplant, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake the Pizza
- Slide the parchment and pizza directly onto the oven rack.
- Bake until the edge of the pizza is golden and the cheese is melted, about 10 to 12 minutes.
Slice and Garnish
- Transfer the pizza to a cutting board and cut into slices.
- Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves for a delightful finish.
Notes
This pizza can be prepped and frozen either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, increasing the baking time slightly.
