This cauliflower pizza crust recipe is a healthy, vegetarian option that’s completely gluten-free since it contains no flour. It’s perfect for those following a low-carb diet. Typically, pizza is considered fast food—delicious, but not always healthy. However, fast food doesn’t have to be harmful. I have a friend who is a fitness enthusiast and constantly follows various diets. Once a week, she indulges in a cheat meal for herself and her kids, but instead of typical fast food like french fries or burgers, she opts for healthier versions. She introduced me to this cauliflower pizza crust recipe, and now I make it at least once a week. By changing the toppings, you can enjoy a new flavor experience each time.
How to Make Cauliflower Pizza Crust:
- Start by rinsing and chopping the cauliflower. Place it in a blender and pulse until it reaches a rice-like consistency.
- Microwave the cauliflower for a few minutes, then dry it with paper towels or squeeze it through cheesecloth to remove excess moisture.
- Mix the cauliflower with cheese, egg, salt, and spices, and knead the dough by hand.
- Spread the dough on parchment paper and roll it out with a rolling pin.
- Bake the crust, then top with tomato sauce, cheese, or your favorite toppings.
Using Frozen Cauliflower:
To save time, you can use frozen cauliflower. Simply thaw it the day before to ensure all the excess moisture is removed, allowing the crust to turn out crispy.
How to Freeze Cauliflower Pizza Crust:
If you want to make extra, just double the recipe. Bake two large or four small crusts and store them in a sealed container for up to 5-6 months. To use, bake the frozen crust for 10 minutes until warmed through.
Toppings for Cauliflower Pizza:
Get creative with your toppings! Popular choices include mushrooms, ham, turkey, pineapple, pepperoni, olives, and various cheeses.
How to Make Tomato Sauce for Cauliflower Pizza:
- Boil three large tomatoes for 30 seconds, peel them, and blend until smooth.
- Sauté one onion and one garlic clove in olive oil.
- Add the tomatoes, salt, pepper, and basil. Simmer uncovered until the sauce thickens.
- For a richer color, add a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste.
Does Cauliflower Pizza Crust Taste Good?
While it doesn’t taste exactly like traditional pizza, cauliflower crust is delicious in its own right. It has a thin, crispy texture, and when paired with a flavorful tomato sauce and your favorite cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser. When I first made it, I didn’t mention the cauliflower to my family, and they loved it—my husband even asked for seconds!
Tips for Making the Best Cauliflower Pizza Crust:
- For a creamier texture, swap regular cheese with goat cheese.
- Make the edges of the crust thicker to resemble traditional pizza dough.
Is Cauliflower Pizza Crust Healthier Than Regular Crust?
Yes, cauliflower pizza is much healthier, especially for those keeping an eye on their carb intake or who have gluten intolerance. It’s a great alternative to traditional pizza crust without sacrificing flavor.
Can You Buy Cauliflower Pizza Crust?
Absolutely! You can find cauliflower pizza crusts in most supermarkets, both plain and with toppings, making it even easier to enjoy this healthy alternative at home.
CAULIFLOWER PIZZA CRUST
Course: Uncategorized4
servings20
minutes15
minutes300
kcalIngredients
1 small to medium head of cauliflower (should yield about 2 cups once processed)
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic salt OR 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup mozzarella cheese
1 egg
Pizza sauce and toppings of your choice
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, lightly spraying it with cooking spray.
- Pulse the raw cauliflower in a blender until it reaches a fine, rice-like texture. Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 4 minutes. Once cooled, wrap the cauliflower in cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. The drier the cauliflower, the crispier your crust will be.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower, egg, Parmesan, mozzarella, salt, and spices. Mix thoroughly to form a dough.
- Shape the dough into a ball, then place it on the prepared baking sheet. Roll it out with a rolling pin to about 0.2 inches thick.
- Bake the crust for 20-25 minutes, until it’s golden and firm. Optionally, flip the crust halfway through for even baking, but this step isn’t necessary.
- Once baked, spread your favorite pizza sauce over the crust, add shredded cheese, and any toppings of your choice.
- Return to the oven and bake until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Enjoy your delicious cauliflower pizza!