Create Your Own 8" Cauliflower Crust Pizza Recipe

Prepare cauliflower

If using fresh cauliflower: chop into florets and pulse in a food processor until rice-like. If using frozen: thaw completely. Place riced cauliflower into a microwave-safe bowl and microwave 3–4 minutes until tender, or sauté 4–5 minutes until softened. Let cool slightly.

Remove moisture

Transfer warm riced cauliflower to a clean kitchen towel or several layers of cheesecloth. Gather corners and twist to squeeze out as much liquid as possible (aim for 1/4 cup or less remaining). This step is critical to prevent a soggy crust.

Make crust mixture

In a bowl combine the drained cauliflower, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.

Shape the crust

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet or 8-inch pizza pan with parchment paper and lightly oil if desired. Place the cauliflower mixture onto the center and press into an even 8-inch round about 1/4–1/3-inch thick with slightly thicker edges to form a rim.

Par-bake crust

Brush the surface lightly with 1 tsp olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–16 minutes, until the crust is set and edges begin to brown. Remove from oven and let cool 2–3 minutes before adding sauce.

While crust is par-baking, combine 1/2 cup tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp minced garlic, 1/4 tsp sugar (optional), 1/8 tsp salt, 1/16 tsp black pepper and 1/2 tsp olive oil in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and taste-adjust seasoning. Keep sauce at room temperature until ready to use.

Assemble pizza

Spread about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the signature pizza sauce evenly over the par-baked cauliflower crust, leaving the rim exposed. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded pizza mozzarella over the sauce. Arrange chosen toppings (e.g., 12 pepperoni slices, 1/4 cup bell pepper, 1/4 cup mushrooms) evenly over the cheese. Finish with a light pinch of crushed red pepper if desired.

Bake to finish

Return the assembled pizza to the oven and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 8–12 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and edges of the crust are golden. Keep an eye to avoid over-browning.

Rest & finish

Remove pizza from oven and let rest 3–5 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Slice and serve warm.