Description
These Mini Cauliflower Pizzas are a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional pizza. Made with a cauliflower crust loaded with cheese and herbs, topped with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni minis, they are perfect for a quick snack or a light meal. Ready in just 40 minutes, these bite-sized pizzas are both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cauliflower Crust
- 1 head cauliflower (chopped)
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
For the Topping
- 1/3 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup pepperoni minis
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set it aside for later use.
- Prepare Cauliflower: Add the chopped cauliflower to a food processor and pulse until it is finely ground, yielding about 2 to 3 cups of riced cauliflower.
- Cook Cauliflower: Transfer the finely ground cauliflower to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it loosely and microwave for 4 to 5 minutes until softened, then let it cool down.
- Drain Excess Water: Using a clean dish towel or cheesecloth, drain the cooked cauliflower thoroughly to remove as much water as possible; this is essential for a sturdy crust.
- Make Cauliflower Dough: Transfer the drained cauliflower into a large bowl. Add the egg, 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, dried basil, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well to form a dough-like mixture.
- Form Crusts and Bake: Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, form the cauliflower mixture into individual circular shapes on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray each circle with nonstick spray. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are golden and firm.
- Add Toppings and Finish Baking: Remove the crusts from the oven. Spread marinara sauce evenly on each cauliflower crust, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and pepperoni minis. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the mini pizzas from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Be sure to remove as much moisture as possible from the cauliflower after microwaving to ensure a crispy crust.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- You can substitute pepperoni with other toppings like mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers for variety.
- For a crispier crust, you may bake the cauliflower base a few extra minutes before adding toppings.
- These mini pizzas can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispness instead of a microwave.
