Looking for a festive, fun, and healthier snack that delights both kids and adults? These mini cauliflower pizzas are the perfect solution. Packed with flavor and holiday cheer, they’re ideal for Christmas parties, family gatherings, or a cozy night in.Glamour+1Southern Living+1
Why You’ll Love These Mini Cauliflower Pizzas
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Children adore these bite-sized treats, making them a hit at any gathering.
- Healthier Choice: Using cauliflower as the base offers a low-carb, gluten-free alternative to traditional pizza dough.
- Customizable Toppings: Tailor each mini pizza with your favorite toppings to suit all tastes.
- Festive Presentation: Their colorful appearance adds a cheerful touch to any holiday spread.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, riced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup pizza sauce
- ½ cup mini pepperoni slices
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower
Rice the cauliflower using a food processor or grater. Place the riced cauliflower in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
3. Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the riced cauliflower, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Form the Mini Pizzas
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each into a small circle, about ¼ inch thick.
5. Bake the Crusts
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
6. Add Toppings
Remove from the oven and spread a small amount of pizza sauce on each crust. Top with mini pepperoni slices and additional mozzarella, if desired.
7. Final Bake
Return to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil before serving, if using. Enjoy warm.Glamour+3Verywell Family+3Allrecipes+3
Tips for Success
- Drain Cauliflower Well: Removing as much moisture as possible ensures a crispier crust.
- Uniform Sizes: Keeping the mini pizzas the same size helps them cook evenly.
- Creative Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings like diced vegetables, olives, or even pineapple for a sweet twist.
Serving Suggestions
These mini pizzas are perfect on their own or served with:Glamour
- A side salad for a light meal.
- A variety of dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli.
- As part of a larger appetizer spread for parties.bhg.com
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the cauliflower crusts in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before adding toppings and baking.
- Freezing: Freeze baked crusts without toppings in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw and add toppings before the final bake.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Final Thoughts
These festive mini cauliflower pizzas are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. Their combination of wholesome ingredients and customizable toppings makes them a favorite for both kids and adults. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, they’re sure to become a staple in your festive recipe collection.