Cauliflower Crust Pizza Bites Recipe – Italian Special
Cauliflower Crust Pizza Bites are a healthier, gluten-free alternative to traditional pizza, offering all the delicious flavors of pizza in a bite-sized form. Made with a base of cauliflower that’s grated, squeezed of excess moisture, and then combined with cheese and seasonings, these mini pizzas are both light and satisfying. The cauliflower crust is crispy on the outside while still tender on the inside, making it a great low-carb option for pizza lovers. These pizza bites are perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or even as a fun party food, and can be topped with your favorite pizza ingredients.
- Prep Time15 min
- Cook Time15 min
- Total Time30 min
Cauliflower Crust Pizza Bites Ingredients :
- 1 medium cauliflower head (or about 4 cups cauliflower rice)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
- Additional mozzarella and toppings (optional, for pizza)
How to make Cauliflower Crust Pizza Bites :
Prepare the cauliflower:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grate the cauliflower or pulse it in a food processor until it resembles rice.
Microwave the cauliflower rice in a bowl for 4-5 minutes, or steam it until tender. Let it cool slightly, then place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out any excess moisture.
Make the crust mixture:In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until a dough-like consistency forms.
Form the pizza bites:Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out spoonfuls of the cauliflower mixture and shape them into small round or oval crusts (about 1-2 inches in diameter) and place them on the baking sheet.
Bake the crusts:Bake the crusts for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy around the edges.
Top the bites (optional):Remove the cauliflower crusts from the oven. Add a little extra mozzarella cheese, sauce, or your favorite pizza toppings, and return them to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:Allow the bites to cool slightly before serving with marinara sauce for dipping.
Recipe Notes :
Cauliflower Moisture:Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the cauliflower as possible. This will help the crust hold together and become crispy.
Cheese Variations:You can use a mix of mozzarella and other cheeses like cheddar or feta for different flavors.
Toppings:Customize your pizza bites with any toppings you like—pepperoni, bell peppers, olives, or spinach all work well.
Freezing:You can freeze the cauliflower crusts before adding toppings. Simply bake them as directed, let them cool, then freeze. Reheat and top with sauce and cheese when ready to serve.