Go Back
There’s something undeniably rewarding about crafting your own pizza at home. The process is not just a culinary endeavor but also an opportunity to experiment with flavors, textures, and fresh ingredients. Among the many possibilities, the Smoky Eggplant & Hatch Chili Pizza stands out as a delightful fusion of savory and spicy notes, showcasing the best of seasonal produce and artisanal cooking. This unique pizza combines the rich, smoky flavor of roasted eggplant with the vibrant heat of Hatch green chiles, creating a dish that is both satisfying and full of character.

Eggplant & Hatch Chili Pizza

Discover the joy of homemade pizza with this Smoky Eggplant & Hatch Chili Pizza recipe! This unique blend combines roasted eggplant, spicy Hatch chiles, and your choice of cheese for a satisfying dish that’s both flavorful and nourishing. Perfect for any dietary preference, this recipe showcases fresh ingredients and artisanal cooking techniques. Prepare your dough, assemble your toppings, and enjoy a delicious culinary journey from the comfort of your kitchen!

Ingredients
  

1 large eggplant, sliced into thin rounds

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 batch of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)

1 cup marinara sauce

1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 cup Hatch green chiles, roasted and diced (fresh or canned)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prep the Eggplant: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking, until the slices are tender and lightly browned.

    Prepare the Pizza Dough: If using homemade pizza dough, dust a clean surface with flour and roll it out to your desired thickness. For store-bought dough, follow the package instructions. Shape your dough into a round or rectangular form, then transfer it to a pizza stone or baking sheet lightly brushed with olive oil to prevent sticking.

      Assemble the Pizza: Evenly spread the marinara sauce over the prepared pizza dough, ensuring to cover the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese uniformly across the top. Next, add the roasted eggplant and diced Hatch chiles, layering them evenly. Finally, dust the toppings with garlic powder and finish with crumbled feta cheese for a tangy twist.

        Bake the Pizza: Carefully place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden, and the crust has a perfectly crisp texture.

          Finishing Touches: Once the pizza is out of the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes to make slicing easier. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an added kick, if desired. Cut into slices, serve hot, and savor every bite!

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings

              - Presentation Tips: Serve the pizza on a wooden cutting board for a rustic touch. Consider adding a small bowl of extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of olive oil for guests to personalize their slices.