Cheese Pizza On Cauliflower Crust Recipe

Prepare cauliflower

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly brush or spray with olive oil. If using fresh cauliflower, remove stems and leaves and chop into florets; pulse in a food processor until it becomes rice-sized. If using frozen, thaw and drain well before proceeding.

Cook and dry cauliflower rice

Transfer the riced cauliflower to a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high for 4–5 minutes until softened. Alternatively, sauté in a skillet with 1 teaspoon olive oil for 5–7 minutes. Let cool slightly. Then, place the warm cauliflower in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels and squeeze out as much liquid as possible — aim to remove at least 80% of moisture (you should get a dry, crumbly rice). This step is critical for a sturdy crust.

Mix crust ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the dried cauliflower rice, beaten eggs, 1 cup grated Parmesan, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until a cohesive, slightly sticky dough forms.

Shape and bake crust

Transfer the cauliflower mixture to the prepared sheet and press into a 10–12 inch round (or rectangle) about 1/4-inch thick, making a slightly thicker edge for a rim. Brush the surface lightly with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, until the edges are golden and the center feels set. If the crust is wet in the center, bake an additional 3–5 minutes.

Add sauce and cheese

Remove the baked crust from the oven. Spread the 3/4 cup pizza sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella over the sauce, then dust with 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan and the 1 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning. Add red pepper flakes if using.

Bake until cheese melts

Return the pizza to the oven and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 6–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. For a slightly browned top, you can broil on high for 1–2 minutes — watch closely to prevent burning.

Rest and garnish

Remove pizza from the oven and let rest 3–5 minutes so the cheese sets and the crust firms. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Slice into 6–8 pieces and serve warm.