Who says pizza can’t be healthy and fun? These Cauliflower Pizza Bites are the perfect low-carb alternative to traditional pizza. They’re crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making them a delightful snack or appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game night or looking for a family-friendly recipe, these bites are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings, so you can get creative while keeping things nutritious!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, riced (about 3 cups)
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 1/4 cup mini pepperoni slices (or your choice of toppings)
- Optional: Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin tin for perfectly shaped bites.
- Prepare the cauliflower: Rice the cauliflower using a food processor or by grating it. Place the riced cauliflower in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 5 minutes, or until tender. Let it cool slightly, then use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out as much water as possible. This step ensures crispy bites.
- Make the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower, egg, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until a dough-like consistency forms.
- Form the bites: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and press it into small rounds or fill the mini muffin tin. Flatten slightly to mimic a crust.
- Bake the crusts: Place the bites in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until lightly golden and set.
- Add the toppings: Remove from the oven and top each bite with a small dollop of marinara sauce, a sprinkle of the remaining mozzarella cheese, and a few mini pepperoni slices.
- Final bake: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the bites cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin or tray. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve warm.
Tips:
- For extra crispiness, broil the bites for 1–2 minutes at the end of the cooking time.
- Experiment with toppings like sautéed mushrooms, olives, or diced bell peppers to suit your preferences.
Enjoy your guilt-free pizza indulgence!
