Ingredients:

  • 4 cups riced cauliflower (about 400 g) — from 1 medium head cauliflower or cauliflower florets pulsed in a food processor
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella (about 100 g), divided
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano (about 25 g)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or 1/2 tsp dried oregano + 1/2 tsp dried basil)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing the crust)
  • 1/2 cup pizza sauce or crushed tomatoes (120 ml)
  • 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella (about 75 g) for topping
  • Optional toppings: 1/2 cup thinly sliced bell pepper, 1/4 cup sliced red onion, 12–15 slices pepperoni, 1 cup baby spinach, fresh basil leaves, mushrooms, olives
  • Red pepper flakes, fresh basil, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to finish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper and lightly oil it.
  2. Break cauliflower into florets and pulse in a food processor until rice-sized, or grate on a box grater until you have small grain-like pieces.
  3. Transfer riced cauliflower to a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high for 4–6 minutes until softened, or sauté in a skillet with a splash of water for 6–8 minutes. Let cool 2–3 minutes.
  4. Transfer the warm cauliflower to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze over the sink until no more liquid comes out. Aim for very dry, crumb-like cauliflower to prevent a soggy crust.
  5. In a large bowl combine the drained cauliflower, beaten eggs, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined and slightly sticky.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared parchment. Using damp hands, press into a 10–11 inch round about 1/4–1/3 inch thick with slightly raised edges. Rest 8–10 minutes to firm up.
  7. Brush the surface lightly with olive oil and bake on the middle rack for 12–18 minutes until edges are golden and the surface is set and starting to brown.
  8. Remove the prebaked crust and spread a light, even layer of pizza sauce (about 1/2 cup). Sprinkle 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella and arrange chosen toppings sparingly to avoid sogginess.
  9. Return to the oven and bake 8–10 minutes more until cheese is melted and bubbly and edges are crisp. Optionally broil 1–2 minutes for extra browning—watch closely.
  10. Let the pizza rest 3–5 minutes, then slice with a pizza cutter or sharp knife. Garnish with fresh basil or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and serve warm.