Description
Crispy on the edges and cheesy on top, these Zucchini Pizza Bites offer a delicious, guilt-free appetizer or snack option. Featuring roasted zucchini rounds topped with classic pizza sauce, melty mozzarella cheese, and mini pepperoni slices, they bring all the flavors of your favorite pizza in convenient bite-sized form.
Ingredients
Zucchini Base
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings
- ¼ cup pizza or marinara sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup mini pepperoni slices (or chopped pepperoni)
- ¼ tsp Italian seasoning
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 °F (200 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Zucchini: Arrange the zucchini slices evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over them for seasoning.
- Initial Roasting: Roast the zucchini slices in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes until they become just tender but still hold their shape. Remove the baking sheet from the oven to add toppings.
- Add Toppings: Spoon a small amount of pizza or marinara sauce onto each zucchini round, spreading it evenly. Top each with shredded mozzarella cheese and a few mini pepperoni slices for that classic pizza flavor.
- Final Bake: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle Italian seasoning over the pizza bites. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added color and freshness. Serve warm for the best experience.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the pepperoni or swap it out for diced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Air fryer option: Cook at 375 °F for a total of 6 to 8 minutes, shaking or rearranging halfway through for even cooking.
- These bites are best served immediately to enjoy the crispy edges. To reheat, use a toaster oven to maintain crispiness without sogginess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
