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Crispy Cauliflower Crust Pizza Recipe Easy Homemade Mozzarella Basil

crispy cauliflower crust pizza - featured image

A quick and easy crispy cauliflower crust pizza topped with fresh mozzarella and basil, perfect for a healthy and satisfying homemade pizza alternative.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head cauliflower (about 4 cups grated)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 ½ cups fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn into small pieces
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped or torn
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Black pepper, a few grinds
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, for brushing the crust
  • ½ cup tomato sauce (simple marinara or crushed tomatoes with salt and garlic)

Instructions

  1. Rice the cauliflower: Break the cauliflower into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice-sized pieces (about 4 cups). Alternatively, grate with a box grater.
  2. Steam the cauliflower rice: Place the riced cauliflower in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 4-5 minutes until soft, or steam on the stovetop for about 5 minutes.
  3. Drain thoroughly: Transfer the cooked cauliflower rice to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible until dry enough to hold shape when pressed.
  4. Mix crust ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained cauliflower rice, eggs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly incorporated.
  5. Form the crust: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly brush with olive oil. Press the cauliflower mixture into a round or rectangular pizza shape about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) thick, with slightly thicker edges.
  6. Bake the crust: Place the crust in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy around the edges.
  7. Add toppings: Remove the crust from the oven and spread the tomato sauce evenly over the surface. Scatter the fresh mozzarella pieces on top.
  8. Bake again: Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles lightly.
  9. Finish with basil: Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh basil over the pizza. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Notes

Squeeze the cauliflower rice very firmly to remove excess moisture to avoid soggy crust. Use fresh mozzarella sliced or torn for better melting and texture. Preheat oven fully to 425°F for a crispy crust. If edges brown too fast, tent loosely with foil. Let pizza rest a few minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts. Reheat leftovers in skillet or oven to maintain crispiness; avoid microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: cauliflower crust pizza, crispy cauliflower pizza, homemade pizza, mozzarella basil pizza, gluten-free pizza, low-carb pizza, easy pizza recipe